The Halls are Alive with 'The Sound of Music'

As Megan Deppen prepared to take on the role of Maria Rainer in the beloved musical The Sound of Music, she aimed to play the role in as genuine a fashion as possible.

After watching the movie version, Deppen said the toughest part was "capturing (Maria's) energy. She's so aesthetic. She has an appreciation for music more so than anyone else. She looks at the hills and sees something truly magical."

"Everyone knows the show," said Deppen. "I'm really honored to be Maria."

 will present The Sound of Music April 25-28. All shows will be held at 7:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center, 300 Church St.

"We felt The Sound of Music was the perfect opportunity to showcase our talent this year," said director David Harmon. "This story has a huge heart and a timeless message to stay true to oneself, even in the face of adversity. We wanted a show that would be an event for the whole community."

Based on a true story, the musical centers around Maria, who is sent from a local convent to serve as governess for the children of widowed naval officer Capt. von Trapp.

"With her zest for life and love of song, she captures the hearts of the children and eventually the Captain," said Harmon. "However, the growing threat of a German takeover forces Maria, Captain and the children to flee their beloved Austria and begin a new life on the other side of the mountains. Will they escape in time? You'll have to come and see."

Nick Rossiter plays the role of Captain von Trapp. Like Deppen, Rossiter said he watched scenes from the movie version of The Sound of Music to really get a feel for his character.

"That's what people want to see," said Rossiter. "It's hard because people know and love the character. It's 'What would the Captain do,' not 'What would you do if you were the Captain?'"

"I really find it interesting how the character conducts things," said Rossiter. "You can always tell he's in control."

Rossiter noted, however, that Captain von Trapp undergoes a transformation as the play progresses, becoming a more loving person who is "more of a natural father."

Harmon said The Sound of Music is "a perfect show for the whole family. This is a story that has played an important role in our popular culture for generations."

"That being said, one of the challenges with this piece is bringing a sense of truth and honesty to each and every line," said Harmon. "It’s no secret that the dialog was written during a different time and has a nostalgic quality about it. Throughout the production, we have been mindful not to fall into the 'traps' of cliché. Instead, we have sought truth and conviction with every song, every move and every line. I am confident that this production will remind us all, children, teenagers and adults alike, why this story remains the most celebrated musical of all time."

Tickets for The Sound of Music are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Tickets can be reserved on the Performing Arts Center website.