LET’S start at the very beginning, a very good place to start.

 

As the lights dimmed in the theatre, you could sense the excitement and anticipation in the air for The Sound of Music.

 

The classic songs, characters and plot returned to the stage – songs that many have probably not heard for a number of years but as soon as the chilling music echoed throughout the theatre ('The Hills are Alive with the Sound of Music' being a poignant moment) suddenly all lyrical knowledge flooded back to many, who were genuinely seen to mime along (who can’t sing along to ‘My Favourite Things?’)

 

The new staging of the classic musical coincides with the 50th anniversary of the film version - the most successful movie musical in history – bringing the pressure of high expectations from the audience.

 

Produced by Bill Kenwright, the musical ticks the box for a warm, satisfying show with amazing vocal performances from Maria von Trapp (played by Jessica Daley with a cast change on the evening) and Captain von Trapp (Steven Houghton).

 

Family favourites are performed lightly throughout, with rare but enjoyable humorous moments – with the von Trapp children normally at the centre.

 

Undeniably, the children steal the show – which is generally dominated by the romantic plot and Maria’s search for happiness throughout, with a final focus on the family’s escape to freedom as their beloved Austria becomes part of the Third Reich at the start of WWII.

 

The Sound of Music is a musical must see – if you are a genuine fan of the original – and for those who particularly can appreciate epic vocal moments (a highlight being Climb Ev’ry Mountain) for a light, enjoyable performance.

 

The Bristol Hippodrome shows The Sound of Music for two weeks from June 22 to July 4: evenings at 7.30pm and matinees on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm.