“The Hills Are Alive with The Sound of Music!” Well they certainly are this week as Saundersfoot Footlights performs this beloved classic heartwarming tale of Maria and the von Trapp family in The Sound of Music at the seaside village’s Regency Hall venue.

The role of Maria is undeniably the heart of ‘The Sound of Music’ - and Anna Nelmes in this role brought both energy and warmth to the character, from the carefree postulant to the steadfast woman who unites the von Trapp family through love and music.

Anna’s voice suited the part perfectly from the fun upbeat songs to the romantic duet with Captain von Trapp played by Jack Butler who seamlessly moves from a rigid disciplinarian to a loving father. His rendition of ‘Edelweiss’ was both poignant and moving.

Mother Abbess (Sarah Stanton) and all the nuns provided us with some beautiful singing and harmonies whilst the comedic performances of Max Detweiler (James Marjoram) and Elsa Schraeder (Libby Stewart-Walvin) delighted the audience with lighter moments. Sophie Eastwood and Rhydian Morgan playing the young Liesl and Rolf capturing both the fun of ‘Sixteen going on Seventeen’ and the heartbreak of the forthcoming war.

The von Trapp children played by two sets of children, Friedrich (Ray Olney & Tomi Prickett), Louisa (Charlotte Baxter & Phoebe Erskine), Kurt (Tommy La Rosa), Brigitta (Lydia Davies & Frankie Fox), Marta (Hallie Griffiths & Alice Holden), Gretl (Lowri Davies & Phoebe Welsh) are a delightful highlight. Their chemistry together as a family worked well and they charmed the audience with their rendition of ‘So Long, Farewell’.

There were many supporting cast members and ensemble that made this show really come alive – with particular mention to the goats in the Lonely Goatherd scene!

The musical accompaniment was outstanding with live musicians providing the soundtrack thanks to musical director Angharad Saunders. The set design was effective in transporting us to the verdant hills of Austria and the opulent yet understated home of the von Trapps and the Abbey along with creative lighting and sound.

The costumes were well-chosen, reflecting the period and setting of the musical. From Maria’s simple convent attire to the von Trapp family’s elegant ensembles, the wardrobe enhanced the visual appeal of the production. The curtain-play outfits for "Do-Re-Mi" were a charming nod to the resourcefulness depicted in the story, adding an extra layer of charm.

Under the masterful direction of Jordan Dicken the dedication of this cast and crew shines through. Performances run from Monday, May 26 to Saturday, May 31.

Doors open at 6.30pm, for a 7pm start.

For ticket information, please visit: www.Saundersfootamdram.co.uk

Available online or at the door.