MOREE Arts Community Theatre has climbed every mountain to present its latest offering to Moree, with well-known musical director Stevie Drenkhahn’s long-held vison to present The Sound of Music to a Moree audience only weeks away.

The Sound of Music, one of the most beloved musicals of all time, will play consecutive weekends in late July and early August at the Moree Uniting Church Hall on Frome Street.

Tickets are available online at www.123tix.com.au or over the counter at Sylvia’s Fabrics on Heber Street.

The two-and-a-half-hour musical spectacular, featuring an impressive cast of local stars, will play July 18-19-20 and July 25-26-27 as well as August 1-2, with matinee and evening shows scheduled.

All times are detailed on the booking page.

Ms Drenkhahn has put together quite a few of her favourite things to present The Sound of Music, a timeless masterpiece from the magical pens of composer Richard Rodgers and lyricist Oscar Hammerstein.

The musical classic is arguably best-known for the 1965 film of the same name, starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer.

Following open auditions, rehearsals for the Moree production – co-directed by Moree staple Tim Barkley – began nearly 12 months ago, with the dedicated cast and crew rehearsing twice a week for the past six months.

“The show has truly come together beautifully and, as a small organisation, many individuals have embraced dual roles,” Ms Drenkhahn said.

“Crucially, Tim has taken on the role of assistant director spectacularly.

“His understanding is almost telepathic. He’s been truly on the same wavelength when it comes to directing dialogue, allowing for seamless collaboration where scenes and songs with the children could be directed and choreographed, all while working diligently and exceptionally with the adults,” she said.

The cast features a raft of local stars, including David Powell as Captain Georg von Trapp, Talitha Mitchell as Maria and Mandy Mitchell as the Mother Abbess.

Josie, Cedar and Petra Mitchell, along with Imogen, Esther, and Florence Cobb are cast as the von Trapp family singers.

“They are truly the cutest singers you ever did see,” Ms Drenkhahn smiled.

“And a special mention must go to their dedicated understudies – Lucy Morrison, Lillian Cobb and Atticus Wright, who will also grace the stage in some performances.”

The musical also warmly welcomes familiar faces back to the spotlight, including Will Penfold, Jayne McDouall, Bernadette Quirk and Helena Ross, as well as many new, friendly faces set to captivate the audience.

“Mandy Mitchell, as well as playing Mother Abbess, has brilliantly directed many of the songs, creating a choir of intricate harmonies and ensuring each child masterfully sings their part,” Ms Drenkhahn said.

“Mandy has also been vital in the costume and wardrobe department, working tirelessly with Taylor Powell.”

The Moree production also features the captivating talent of Tori Lockery, who skilfully plays the sophisticated Elsa Schraeder, Captain von Trapp’s other love interest.

“Tori is not only an excellent vocalist who flawlessly nails each character she embodies, but she has also taken on an immense amount of work in this production, learning the most lines in the entire show,” Ms Drenkhahn said.

“Her dedication is remarkable, as she also serves as the understudy for Maria and will make special appearances as the leading lady throughout the playing period, showcasing her versatility and commitment.”

Another character set to charm audiences is Deeni Mitchell, who plays Sister Margaretta, the sweet nun who always stands by Maria.

“Deeni’s acting ability is simply incredible; her portrayal is so convincing, you are almost transported back to an Abbey in the 1930s when Sister Margaretta speaks,” Ms Drenkhahn said.

“Deeni’s talent extends beyond this role, as she also serves as the understudy for Elsa Schraeder.”

Audiences will also adore Andy Mitchell as the lovable character Max, part of the gentry and a true showman.

“Andy’s portrayal of Max has developed and grown throughout the rehearsal process, bringing much comic relief and levity to the musical,” Ms Drenkhahn said.

“Andy truly shines as an actor in this role, and this part has given him a fantastic opportunity to showcase his vocal quality, adding another layer of delight to the production.”

MACT’s The Sound of Music

When: July 18-19-20 and July 25-26-27 as well as August 1-2 (10 shows)

Where: Moree Uniting Church Hall on Frome Street

Times: 1pm and 6pm (check booking site for specific times on specific days)

Cost: $30 to $50

Tickets: www.123tix.com.au

Images courtesy of Lesley Barklay.