'Sound of Music' timeless

When The Mother Abbess sings "Climb Every Mountain" in "The Sound of Music," the genius of Rodgers and Hammerstein spills through, making you realize it is not just a physical mountain referred to but an emotional and spiritual mountain representing challenges in life.

"The Sound of Music," which opened Friday perceptively directed by Robert Ivey at the Footlight Players, contains a timeless element.

The story centers upon a postulate, Maria, sent by The Mother Abbess, touchingly sung by Druid Hamrick Joyner, to be a governess for the von Trapp family of seven children whose mother has died.

Emily Wilhoit as Maria is first-rate with her superb vocal prowess and her air of determination, while Robbie Thomas' portrayal of Max perfectly exemplified the axiom: "Evil triumphs when good men do nothing."

The seven children were adorable, and Cara Dolan as Elsa Schraeder, as von Trapp's fiancee embodied a decent woman who ultimately sides with the enemy. As von Trapp, Tony Nappo could have shown more confidence and charisma and, at times, seemed unsure of his lines.

Music director and pianist Nancy Stedman superbly carried out the Herculean task of performing the score with only a bass and drums. The musical is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Go take a look.