Now playing at the Majestic Theatre is ‘The Sound of Music’ and last night’s opening performance played to a full house. There are still two more chances to catch this immensely popular musical this weekend at 8p.m. Saturday and 2p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $45 and are available through Ticketmaster online, by calling (800) 982-2787 or by visiting the Majestic Box Office. The show is the story of Maria, a postulant who is sent to work as a governess to a large family when she begins to second guess her decision to become a nun. Eventually she falls in love with the children and their widowed father Captain von Trapp. The Captain opposes the Nazis so when he is ordered to accept a commission in the German navy he and Maria flee Austria with the children. This brand-new production of the spirited, romantic and beloved musical continues to thrill audiences everywhere.

‘The Sound of Music’ takes place in Austria, just before World War II and begins at the Nonnberg Abbey as the nuns perform ‘Preludium.’ From there, it transitions smoothly into one of the audience’s favorite scene that includes Maria (Jill-Christine Wiley) singing ‘The Sound of Music.’ As soon as the von Trapp children take the stage, they captivate the audience, especially Gretl (Quinn Eden Titcomb), the youngest. Maria takes a liking to the children and teaches them the basics of music “Do-Re-Mi.” When she realizes that she might have developed feelings for the Captain (Mike McLean), she flees back to the Abbey. Lauren Kidwell, who portrays Mother Abbess, closes out the first act with  ‘Climb Ev’ry Mountain’ when she tells Maria that she can not run from her problems.  The von Trapps perform at the Kaltzberg Festival, after which Captain von Trapp sings “Edelweiss” as a farewell to this homeland. They sneak out before the winners are announced and hide out at the Abbey but when Sister Margaretta informs them that the borders are closed, they flee over the Alps while the nuns sing “Climb Ev’ry Mountain.”

This production features music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Howard Lindsay and Russell Crouse, suggested by “The Trapp Family Singers” by Maria Augusta Trapp. It continues to be the most successful musical in history, and for good reason. The themes of family and music remain as relevant as ever and its overall feel good atmosphere is always welcome. Jill-Christine and Mike McLean are perfect together as Maria and Captain von Trapp and their chemistry makes the show work. Highlights include Maria and the children’s “Do-Re-Mi” and Maria and Mother Abess’ “My Favorite Things.” Special mention goes to Lauren Kidwell, whose rendition of “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” blew the audience away.  They were still raving about it as they left the theater. This family friendly musical appeals to long-time fans as well as newcomers and is a definite must see.