The Sound of Music at Leeds Grand Theatre Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Kat Harrison
I was introduced to The Sound of Music by my Grannie Annie over forty years ago and immediately fell in love with the Von Trapp family. Despite having watched the multi-award-winning film starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer countless times, I had never seen a stage version, so when the opportunity came up to review Opera North’s production at the Leeds Grand Theatre, I was there. Not only was I set to indulge in more than a bit of nostalgia, I was to introduce one of my favourite musicals to my daughters. And what a way to do it!
The set immediately saw my jaw drop. I have never seen anything quite like it on a stage before. Somehow a mountain has moved itself into the theatre and provides an amazing backdrop to the action. As the cast scaled the majestic Austrian Alps right in front of my eyes, I couldn’t quite work out how this mighty and impressive hillside had been scaled to fit the stage and look so realistic. It was brilliantly baffling and not only set the scene but the standard for the whole show.
Another standout feature was the sound of the 40-piece live orchestra that took the Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic score to the same heights as the production’s peaky scenery. The sublime songs I have loved from childhood were brought to life with the selection of instruments creating heart-warming renditions of fun-filled songs including Do-Re-Mi, My Favourite Things and The Lonely Goatherd. The beautiful sound from the pit was matched by the stunning vocals featured on stage.
The songs, many of which are lighthearted somehow have been crafted to feel sincere and emotional, whilst remaining playful. The cast do a wonderful job of injecting optimism, hope and love into the performances. The actors create a wonderful balance of unadulterated joy and deeper meaning to the songs which at first can be considered fun interactions but soon reveal the importance music will have in keeping this family strong and together.
The story needs little introduction. When free-spirited, wannabe-nun Maria joins the strict household of Captain von Trapp as the new governess, regime and rules are quickly replaced by fun and frivolity.
Maria’s love of music and her overriding joy of life help her gain the trust of the seven von Trapp children, and even soften the guarded heart of the Captain.
It’s a story full of warmth and humour that celebrates the joy of music, laughter and family. But at its heart, there is also the darkness of war and the disruption of peace. When the proud Austrian captain is instructed to report for duty in the German navy, he won’t betray his beliefs and instead, with Maria, looks for a way to flee the Nazis. It’s a powerful tale of both love, family and of standing up against unwelcome authority.
The production balances the playfulness of the children with the tense, looming threat of the Anschluss. The show is both a lighthearted frolic that expertly showcases the innocence of childhood, and a production with real emotional depth that encapsulates the worries of war.
Opera North’s leading soprano Katie Bird makes a wonderfully likeable and mischievous Maria – and her superb casting is key to the whole story. Her rendition of ‘Climb Every Mountain’ reflects those operatic roots and showcases her amazing sound. Her relationship with the von Trapp children feels natural and you immediately buy into the notion that the governess is quick to win over their affections.
Star of stage and screen Edward Bennett plays a somewhat uptight but breakable, and eventually likeable Captain von Trapp. He has an Alan Rickman way about him and does an excellent job of portraying a hard man with a soft centre.
This much-loved story has brought together some super talented artists. The acting hits the mark and the singing is spot on.
Many of the scenes create that feel good factor and when I glanced at my daughters to gauge their reaction, their smiles were reflected in their eyes. They particularly enjoyed the scenes with the children and loved little Margot, played by Evelyn Thomas.
The thunderstorm scene that sees Maria’s bed transform from boat to plane is a choreography delight with so many amusing touches. But as well as offering up those lovely laughter filled acts, the show features so many poignant moments.
The lighting designer Mark Henderson deserves huge credit for his intelligent input that sees the use of candles in the abbey, flashlights in the garden and an amazing shadow freeze frame to represent escape.
There’s much to enjoy about and learn from this show. It’s a masterclass in musical production. Opera North’s ‘The Sound of Music’ offers an escape from our lives and in insight into the lives of a family troubled yet extremely hopeful. There’s messages of resilience, positivity and determination, all bundled up into a fun package. It will encourage you to follow your own path and maybe bring a tear or two to your eye, through not just sadness, but laughter too.
Don’t miss it!
Rating: 4/5 stars
The production runs at Leeds Grand until August 1, 2026
Tickets are priced from £25.75 with discounts for children and a special family ticket deal.
The show is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (includes 20-minute interval) and I’d say is suitable for ages 8+
More information and tickets are available from:
https://www.operanorth.co.uk/whats-on/the-sound-of-music/
Photo credit: Tristram Kenton