OXPOPS: The Sound of Music At New Theatre, Oxford Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Joanna Woodburn

It was with anticipation that we arrived at the New Theatre, Oxford for OXOPS’ current production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s iconic classic, The Sound of Music. The soaring music and spirit of the show are woven into my early memories and I was looking forward to dipping back into the soundtrack of my childhood.

In the show programme, OXOPS write that they have ‘been striving for excellence in musical theatre for almost 80 years – such an achievement and their current show certainly achieves their goal and more on all fronts.

The Sound of Music was Rodgers and Hammerstein’s final (and finest) musical together and was destined to become one of the world’s most celebrated musicals, first premiering on stage in 1959, followed by a stage adaptation in 1965 and it has stood the test of time as a beloved, evergreen favourite of audiences across the generations for many years.

Set in the Austrian Alps, before the Second World War, the show follows the story of young Maria, who becomes governess to the seven children of widowed Captain Georg von Trapp and in doing so, brings joy, warmth and a love of music to the strict, austere household. Framed against a time of intense political tensions and undercurrents of threat, The Sound of Music is a celebration of the power of music to unify and bring courage and love during difficult times and the story is as relevant in today’s uncertain times as ever.

Directed by Rachel Garnet, the immensely talented and committed OXOPS cast and crew are to be commended for shaping such a soul stirring and captivating show. At the heart of the production, Emily Booth gives a brilliant and professional performance as kind hearted and exuberant Maria. From start to finish, she is full of energy, joy and compassion, with clear and note perfect vocals. Andy Blagrove gives a convincing and nuanced performance as Captain von Trapp, portraying his gradual emerging warmth and awakening love for Maria and his homeland with feeling. Sarah Leatherbarrow as Mother Abbess elevates her role beyond expectations, with a standout vocal performance.

The production is vibrant, well paced and full of heart. The first act of the show is packed full of well-loved, classic numbers, from the soaring score of the title song ‘The Sound of Music’, to the beloved ‘Maria’, ‘My Favourite Things’ and ‘Do-Re-Mi’ – the hits just keep on coming. It’s all great fun as Maria starts to connect with the von Trapp children, played by an immensely talented cast of young performers, who each bring their own individual personalities to their roles, with beautifully blended harmonies which are a joy to listen to. The ensemble cast are strong and what was striking was that there was a genuine sense of unity and community on stage, which mirrored the spirit of the show.

With super performances, classic songs and OXOPS trademark professionalism, the hills have been brought to Oxford and have well and truly been brought alive! The Sound of Music at the New Theatre is a very special, heart-warming production, which I would urge you to experience first hand – it will be destined to become one of your ‘favourite things’!

Rating: 4.5/5
The Sound of Music at the New Theatre, Oxford, runs from Wednesday 14th January 2026 to Sunday 18th January 2026, for more information or to book tickets https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/oxops-presents-the-sound-of-music/new-theatre-oxford/