"The Sound of Music" at Westminster Community Playhouse
- OC Theatre Guild
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
The Von Trapp Family Return In A Fresh New Production
by Anne Reid
Westminster Community Playhouse proudly presents a bold and heartfelt new staging of “The Sound of Music.” The final collaboration between Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, “The Sound of Music” has become a play beloved around the world. Based on the true story of the von Trapp Family Singers, this play captures a personal tale of growth and hope amidst the horrors of World War II.
“The Sound of Music” tells the story of young postulant Maria Rainer, whose free spirit has trouble fitting into the rules and regulations of Nonnberg Abbey. Commissioned by the Mother Abbess to serve as the governess for seven motherless children, Maria transforms the von Trapp family home from a place of dour rules and regulations to one filled with joy, laughter, and music. In the process, Maria wins the hearts of all seven children--and their widower father, Captain von Trapp.
With the Mother Abbess’s blessing, and to the children’s delight, Maria follows her heart, and she and the Captain marry. Upon returning home from their honeymoon, they learn that their beloved Austria has been taken over by the Nazis, and the retired Captain is ordered to report for immediate service in the Nazi Navy.
When the Nazis show up at their door to take Captain von Trapp away, a family singing engagement (wily navigated by their friend Max) buys the family time to make their narrow escape. Their Austrian convictions compel Maria, the Captain, and the children to flee over the mountains to Switzerland, taking the words of the Mother Abbess to heart: “Climb Every Mountain… till you find your dream.”
More than just a musical, “The Sound of Music” is a moving testament to the power of love, family, and moral conviction during dangerous times. In a world that often feels uncertain, its message of hope and resistance resonates more than ever.
“This is a story that reminds us of the strength of humanity in the face of adversity,” says Jonny Strebe, the show’s producer and a board member at Westminster Community Playhouse. “It’s important that we remember these historical moments honestly—not just as sentimental nostalgia, but as a reflection of real courage.” Strebe, a classically trained musician and ballet dancer, shares that his favorite moment is the iconic “Do-Re-Mi.” “It reminds me of the foundational joy of learning music and dance,” he says. “I love how Maria adapts her teaching when the children struggle. She shows patience and empathy, treating each child with equal care. That moment is such a celebration of kindness and curiosity.”
At the helm of the production is director Jesse Seann Atkinson, a veteran actor and founder of the Mid-World Players theatre company. Originally from Chicago, Atkinson earned his bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts from the University of Tampa and has directed nearly thirty productions. A seasoned performer since childhood—starting as the Rat King in The Nutcracker—he resides in Los Angeles with his two dachshunds, Trouble and Cordelia. His performance credits include Long Beach Shakespeare Company, The Attic, Costa Mesa Playhouse, and, of course, Westminster Community Playhouse.
“I’ve always told people I wouldn’t direct something so well-known unless I could make it my own,” Atkinson explains. “When Westminster Community Playhouse asked if I would shy away from the darker elements of the story—and I said no—I knew this was a challenge I wanted to take on.”
With a cast of 21 and the intimacy of Westminster Community Playhouse’s small stage, this production leans into both emotional nuance and historical tension. “We use lighting and scenic changes to reflect Maria’s growing impact on the von Trapp family,” Atkinson notes. “As Act II progresses, a stronger Nazi presence begins to take hold, building toward a bone-chilling conclusion.”
“This isn’t a replica of the movie,” he adds. “It’s a deeply personal version of the story. I tell my cast: ‘I don’t direct musicals—I direct plays with music.’ That’s what gives this production its emotional truth.”
With over 60 actors auditioning and only 22 roles available, the production team took great care in casting a dynamic and talented ensemble. “This show has been a major undertaking in our modest theatre,” says Strebe, “but our team approached it with big ideas and open minds. It’s community theatre at its most ambitious.”
From stirring numbers like “Edelweiss” and “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” to the joyful mischief of “My Favorite Things,” this staging of “The Sound of Music” promises to deliver heart, depth, and a timely reminder that even in the darkest moments, the hills are alive with music.
Celebrating its 63rd season, Westminster Community Playhouse is a nonprofit theatre committed to enriching lives through artistic, educational, and cultural experiences. Westminster Community Playhouse values its patrons, volunteers, and a core mission rooted in education, camaraderie, diversity, respect, and community. Street parking and accessible parking behind the theatre are available for all attendees.
Anne Reid is a writer, public & community relations expert, and theatre mom.
“The Sound of Music”
Westminster Community Playhouse
7272 Maple Street, Westminster, CA
May 16 - June 8, 2025
(714) 893-8626, www.wcpstage.com