Review:

WBLOS The Sound of Music Memorial Hall, Royal Wootton Bassett

A memorable spring tonic was enjoyed by large audiences last week, in Wootton Bassett Light Operatic Society's superb production of The Sound of Music. The show was directed by Marion Aspell and Stuart Dark, with musical director Richard Abrams. Positioning of the excellent orchestra at the rear of the impressive set enhanced the immediacy of action on stage.

Atmospheric special effects captured the serenity of the chapel at Nonnberg Abbey, the violent thunderstorm in which the Von Trapp children rushed to Maria for refuge, the Festival formalities and the family's ultimate exit to freedom, as silhouetted figures on a mountainside.

Splendid costumes, props and a fine chorus complemented outstanding individual performances. Albertine Davies was wonderful as Maria, who became governess to the seven children of the widowed Captain Von Trapp (Simon Roberts). Louise Van der Welt was the gracious, understanding Mother Abbess . Captivating performances by the children included Beth Fisher as Liesl. Tom Fisher (Friedrich), Deanna Aspell (Louise), Kieran Jefferies (Kurt), Brooke Bathurst (Brigitta). Frances O'Donoghue (Marta) and Natasha Aspell (Gretl).

Ailsa Burois, Denise Jefferies and Hatty Aspell were Sisters Berthe, Margaretta and Sophia. Stuart Dark and Pamela Carrington played Franz and Frau Schmidt, the Captain's household staff, and Jen Fisher was Elsa Schraeder, his erstwhile fiancee. Joseph Annetts was Rolf Gruber, telegram boy and Hitler Youth, and Ken Brown was Festival organiser Max Detweiler.

The large, accomplished cast did full justice to this popular musical. The extremely informative programme was a worthy souvenir.

STELLA TAYLOR