June 19-29—WOODSTOCK — BarnArts stages “The Sound of Music” in the open air at King Farm, using the surrounding landscape as a natural stage for this timeless story. Performances will take place June 19-21 and 27-28 at 6 p.m., with matinees on June 22 and 29 at 4 p.m. Tickets are available at barnarts.org.
Directed by BarnArts executive director Linda Treash, this beloved musical tells the story of Maria, a young postulant who brings music, joy, and love into the lives of the von Trapp family as the shadows of World War II begin to darken Austria. The real-life von Trapp family eventually made their home in Vermont, lending a special resonance to this local production.
Treash said the organization had long hoped to bring “The Sound of Music” outdoors, and the move to King Farm—with its sweeping views and historical character—provided the perfect opportunity. “The view and the setting on the farmhouse lawn is spectacular,” said Treash. “We are using it as our set, keeping the production simple and natural.”
The production also marks BarnArts’ first collaboration with vocal director Michael Zsoldos, who joins longtime music director Carol Cronce in shaping the sound of the show’s 28-member cast. “The nuns will blow our audience away with the power and beauty of their 4-part harmonies,” said Treash.
The cast brings together seasoned BarnArts performers and newcomers from across the Upper Valley. Taylor Hobson of West Lebanon stars as Maria. “This story has always held a special place in my family,” said Hobson. “Performing in ‘The Sound of Music’ feels like sharing part of myself with my community.”
Albert Falcone, a recent Woodstock resident, plays Captain von Trapp. “We’re engaging in radical empathy,” he said of community theater. “Acting out important events in the lives of people we don’t know, and considering themes of resistance, family, and hope.”
The show features many other local talents: Jenevra Wetmore, executive director of Sustainable Woodstock, appears as Rolf in their first BarnArts role. Lisa Milligan returns to the stage after 40 years as Sister Sophia. Marlena Farinas, a longtime BarnArts youth performer, plays Liesl—just as she herself turns 16 going on 17.
Children from around the area fill out the von Trapp family: Adam Huyck, Henry Butler, Natalie Thakur, Josie and Julia Flaster, and Tasia Benoit. Supporting roles are played by Greg Pomeroy, Elizabeth Linsley, Christine Meagher, Lili Morris, Alicia Hodges, and others in a large ensemble of nuns, guests, and townspeople.
Choreography is by Bridgette Hammond, and costumes—over 100 pieces—are designed by August Doughty, who created custom dresses for Maria and Liesl’s ball scenes.
King Farm, owned and preserved by the Vermont Land Trust, offers a unique backdrop for this outdoor production. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and arrive early to allow for a short walk from the parking area. Some seating will be available, and picnics are welcome. In the event of inclement weather, updates will be posted on barnarts.org and emailed to ticket holders; tickets are valid for any performance.
For more information, visit: barnarts.org.
