Out of nearly 100 entrants, Ten Top Finalists have earned their spot in the Ozarks Dynacom Five Star Talent Contest Final Show on November 20th at the Presley’s Country Jubilee Theatre!

The top finalists of the semi-final competitions held last week at the Historic Owen Theater in Branson and the Historic Lyric Theater in Harrison are:

  • Kentucky Just Us
  • Ron Preston
  • Erin Payne
  • Diana Rockwell & Minnie Doughnut
  • The Crays Twins
  • Lisa Straka
  • Jake and Mikayla
  • Bri Coleman
  • Jazz! Quartet
  • Erich Eastman

The final talent show is Saturday, November 20, 2021 at 2:00pm at the Presley’s Country Jubilee Theater, 2920 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616. The super talented contestants will be competing for a $1,000 cash grand prize along with an appearance on “Branson Country USA,” a nationally syndicated television show produced at Grand Country in Branson, Missouri.

$10 General Admission Tickets are on sale now through the Branson Regional Arts Council and Ozarks Arts Council through the links below. Seating is limited, so get your tickets in advance and support the Arts in the Ozarks!

[fac_icon icon=”star”] CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FINALS TICKETS (benefits Branson Regional Arts Council)
[fac_icon icon=”star-o”] CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FINALS TICKETS (benefits Ozarks Arts Council)

The Ozarks Dynacom Five Star Talent Show is presented by Connell Insurance and also supported in part by Explore Harrison.

BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber (front center) was the Master of Ceremonies for the Branson Semi-Finals show along with celebrity judges (left to right) David Cassavitis, Marshall Howden, Shelly Waggener-Walters, and Doug Gabriel.  The Branson finalists were Kentucky Just Us (backrow), Ron Preston (middle left), the Crays Twins (c), Erin Payne, and Diana Rockwell (middle right).

After nearly 100 contestants submitted their audition videos, the votes are in! The finalists who will be competing in the Semi-Finals of the 1st annual Ozarks DynaCom Five-Star Talent Contest have been announced! Prepare to cheer them on to victory by reserving your seats for one or both of the exciting competitions in Branson, Missouri and Harrison, Arkansas.

A combination of audience voting and professional judging will selected the winners. Two, separate and unique groups of semi-finalists will compete on November 5th at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial in Branson and on November 6th at the Historic Lyric Theater at 115 W. Rush in Harrison, Arkansas. Both semi-final shows begin at 7:00 PM with tickets available for sale on the arts councils’ websites: BransonArts.org/tix and TheLyricHarrison.org.

Tickets are $17 (Adults 18+) and $14 (Youth 4-17). No charge for lap children age 0-3.


Featured performers in the Branson Semi-Final Talent Show include: Kentucky Just Us, Jason Wise, Jake White, Wally West, Ellie Faggion, Erin Payne, Ron Preston, the Crays Twins, Diana Rockwell & Minnie Donut, Sophie Douglas, Pace Gillman, Abby Wheeler, Jake Cantrell, Colony Hannon, and Mathan Pennington. There will also be a special (non-competing) performance by Harmony Trio and Staccato Show Choir. The show will be hosted by Jim Barber, the Executive Director of the Branson Regional Arts Council and morning radio host at Branson4U.com 98.1FM.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS TO THE BRANSON SHOW! (ticket proceeds benefit the BRAC)


Featured performers in the Harrison Semi-Final Talent Show include: Beaux Jenkins, Russell Joyner, Erich Eastman, Hailey Hance, Jazz! Quartet, Bri Coleman, Joey Herd, Tim Martin, Jake & Mikayla, Lisa Straka, Anna Eastman, Krystiahna Goode, and Joshua Evans.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS TO THE HARRISON SHOW! (ticket proceeds benefit the Ozark Arts Council)


We remind you that all ticket proceeds benefit the Arts Council that is hosting each performance. Please help us continue to provide community arts events through your purchase of a ticket to these exciting talent shows.

Ozarks DynaCom, a multi-media and communications company in the central Ozarks region, has announced live show details for their new Five Star Talent Contest underway this year. Contestants submitted videos to enter online, the public voted for their favorites through October 10, and now the live semi-final and final show details are confirmed.

The Presleys’ Theater in Branson, Missouri will host the championship final round of the Ozarks DynaCom FiveStar Talent Contest on Saturday, November 20, 2021 at 2:00 P.M.

Tickets for the Semi-Finals are available NOW at the links below. Tickets for the talent show FINALS will be available soon.

Produced in collaboration with the Branson Regional Arts Council and the Ozark Arts Council based in Harrison, Arkansas, the regional talent competition has been underway since August 16. Ticket sales from three live talent shows will benefit the two arts councils that work to keep arts and culture alive in our region.

“We’re delighted to help support the striving artists in our area and these two great nonprofits who have supported culture and arts in the Ozarks for many years. We are longtime advocates of talent and the arts in the Ozarks, so providing a first-class venue for this competition and fundraiser is a natural fit for our entertainment business, celebrating 54 years in Branson this season.”

– Steve Presley, entertainer and co-owner, Presleys’ Country Jubilee

Semi-Finals Tickets On-Sale Now…

A combination of audience voting and professional judging will selected the winners. Two, separate and unique groups of semi-finalists will compete on November 5th at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial in Branson and on November 6th at the Historic Lyric Theater at 115 W. Rush in Harrison, Arkansas. Both semi-final shows begin at 7:00 PM with tickets available for sale on the arts councils’ websites: BransonArts.org/tix and TheLyricHarrison.org.

“The best of the best will compete at the Presleys’ landmark theater on November 20th. Along with the contest’s presenting sponsor, Connell Insurance, we will celebrate some amazing talent and award $1,000 in cash and an appearance on Grand Country USA to the ultimate winner.”

– Steve Willoughby, General Manager of Ozarks DynaCom

For more information go to OzarksDynaCom.com and all five of their radio stations and related online and social media outlets. Updates on the contest will be provided on air, online and via social media throughout the duration of the competition.

Ozarks Dynacom Stations

About Ozarks DynaCom


Ozarks DynaCom is a multi-media and communications company reaching and engaging a population of 200 thousand throughout the Central Ozarks region by way of five, long-standing radio stations, several social and digital platforms and a variety of strong, strategic partnerships. Ozarks DynaCom offers integrated marketing and communication services and delivers the power of connectivity on a regional scale with Legends 106.3, New Country 102.9 and My 100.1, plus localized focus with The Original KHOZ 94.9 in Harrison and Branson4U 98.1.

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents the Broadway version of Steven King’s Classic Thriller, Carrie The Musical, to the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre for 7 hot performances October 21st through the 30th. Advance reserve tickets are on sale at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

Ticket prices are as follows: Adults (18+) are $17.00, Youth (17 and under) are $14.00.

Performance Dates/Times: Oct 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 (7:30 pm), Oct 30 (11:00 pm late show).

Rated PG-14 | This musical production deals with mild-adult themes and may not be suitable for youth under age of 14. Subject matter includes bullying and mental illness issues, graphic images, strong language and may not be for everyone.

Carrie White is a teenage outcast who longs to fit in. At school, she’s bullied by the popular crowd, and virtually invisible to everyone else. At home, she’s dominated by her loving but cruelly controlling mother. What none of them know is that Carrie’s just discovered she’s got a special power, and if pushed too far, she’s not afraid to use it.
Directed by Jacob Deck, the cast of Carrie The Musical includes: Jennifer Kersey (Margaret White), Emma Puerta (Carrie White), Cat McWhirter (Sue Snell), Caitlin Secrest (Lynn Gardner), Zoe Zelonky (Chris Hargensen), Andrew Wilson (Tommy Ross), Robert Hazlette (Billy Nolan), Loran Polson (Ms. Stephens), Justin Zickefoose (George), Olivia Mottl (Norma), Noah Duwe (Freddy), Megan Rodgers (Helen) and Teghan Breiner (Frieda).
The production team includes: Jacob Deck (Director, Choreographer and Set Design), Caitlin Secrest (Music Director), Loran Polson (Stage Manager), Mac Hill (Technical Director), Cole Hill (Sound Technician), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Jeremiah Reeve, Abby Reeve and Loran Polson (Set Construction), Jim Barber (Marketing and Design).

Set in the present in the small New England town of Chamberlain, Maine, Carrie: The Musical features a book by Lawrence D. Cohen (screenwriter of the classic film), music by Academy Award winner Michael Gore (Fame, Terms of Endearment), and lyrics by Academy Award winner Dean Pitchford (Fame, Footloose).
Winner! 1988 Theatre World Award for Best Broadway Debut (Linzi Hateley)
Winner! 2012 Off Broadway Alliance Award for Best Musical Revival
Winner! 2016 WhatsOnStage Award for Best Off-West End Production
Winner! 2018 Matilda Award for Best Musical (Brisbane Powerhouse)

The Branson Regional Arts Council is getting rave reviews of it’s 4th Annual Shakespeare in the Park production of The Tempest. 

Final Performances: Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park, 312 Esplanade Dr., Hollister, MO

  • Sunday – Oct 3 – 8pm
  • Monday – Oct 4 – 8pm
Family friendly production!
Tickets are$10(Adults 18+),$5(Students with ID, or Youth 4-17)
“Amazing performance of The Tempest in Chad A Fuqua Park yesterday evening. Thank you to Branson Regional Arts Council for bringing theatre to our Hollister Park.”
– Denise Olmstead – Deputy City Administrator, City of Hollister

Bring your own lawn chair or blankets as seating is open in the grass in front of the stage. Bring your own coolers, snacks and refreshments. Jackets are highly recommended as it may cool down in the evening.

“Shakespeare in the park was excellent! So much talent! We enjoyed this SO much! Ariel was incredibly graceful and spirit-like, Caliban was AMAZING, very unearthly, and creepy! We loved Prospero. Trinculo and Stephano kept us in stitches. Amazing performance! Thank you for a great venue and performance!”
– Terena Terry

The production team includes:Justin Ables(Director), Audrey Noll (Choreographer), Nate Frank (Music Arranger), Katie Pohlheber (Stage Manager), Anika Bryceson (Costume Design), Kyle Blanchard (Set Design), Kristen Ables (Puppet Design), Josh Bouldon (Speech and Text Coach), Alex Schriver (Lead Builder).
The Tempest features a talented cast of talented actors including: Nicole Horton (Prospero), Catherine Kennedy (Miranda), Joey Faggion (Ferdinand), Cat Blanchard (Ariel), Josh Bouldon (Caliban), Kyle Blanchard (Caliban), Charis Bouldon (Antonia), Michael Sager (Boatswain), Brandon Farrar (Ship Master), Zack Bucky Buckner (Alonso), Nick Carrano (Sebastian), John Paul Fox (Gonzalo), Jameson Clanton (Trinculo), Blake West (Stephano), and Lindsay LeeElizabeth TheuneKyra CarranoMichael SagerBrandon Farrar (Ensemble/Puppeteers).

Summary of The Tempest:Prospero uses magic to conjure a storm and torment the survivors of a shipwreck, including the King of Naples and Prospero’s treacherous brother, Antonio. Prospero’s slave, Caliban, plots to rid himself of his master, but is thwarted by Prospero’s spirit-servant Ariel. The King’s young son Ferdinand, thought to be dead, falls in love with Prospero’s daughter Miranda. Their celebrations are cut short when Prospero confronts his brother and reveals his identity as the usurped Duke of Milan. The families are reunited and all conflict is resolved. Prospero grants Ariel his freedom and prepares to leave the island.

Recyclable trash helps to create the theatrical magic of The Tempest.

Past BRAC Shakespeare in the Park performances have been in cooperation with Forte Theatrical Productions and includedA Midsummer Night’s Dream,Romeo and Juliet, and a Rock version ofHamlet. Each of these productions were held outdoors on the pavilion stage in Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park, and the Branson Regional Arts Council thanks theCity of Hollisterand theHollister Parks Departmentfor their support and cooperation in making these community events possible.

After a two-week break, the smash hit production 9 to 5 The Musical returns to the Historic Owen Theatre for two final performances on Thursday, September 30th (7pm) and Sunday, October 3rd (2pm).

Reserved seat tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

9 to 5 The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie.

Rated PG-13 |Some Adult Language & Situations

Set in the late 1970s. This hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic. Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy – giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains “otherwise engaged,” the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?

This high-energy show is not only a blast for those on the stage, but also for everyone in the audience! With its jubilant score and easily relatable characters, 9 to 5 is the perfect show to bring to our community this September.

The production is directed by Kyle Bradley with vocal direction by Lloyd Alexander-Holt, and choreography by Jordan Alexander-Holt. Photography by Marshall Meadows.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is thrilled to once again host it’s 4th Annual Shakespeare in the Park production of The Tempest. 

Place: Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park, 312 Esplanade Dr., Hollister, MO

  • Sunday – Sept 26 – 8pm
  • Monday – Sept 27 – 8pm
  • Sunday – Oct 3 – 8pm
  • Monday – Oct 4 – 8pm
Family friendly production!
Tickets are $10 (Adults 18+), $5 (Students with ID, or Youth 4-17)

Bring your own lawnchair or blankets as seating is open in the grass in front of the stage. Refreshments will be available but you may bring your own coolers. Jackets recommended as it may cool down in the evening. 

The production team includes: Justin Ables (Director), Audrey Noll (Choreographer), Nate Frank (Music Arranger), Katie Pohlheber (Stage Manager), Anika Bryceson (Costume Design), Kyle Blanchard (Set Design), Kristen Ables (Puppet Design), Josh Bouldon (Speech and Text Coach), Alex Schriver (Lead Builder).
The Tempest features a talented cast of talented actors including: Nicole Horton (Prospero), Catherine Kennedy (Miranda), Joey Faggion (Ferdinand), Cat Blanchard (Ariel), Josh Bouldon (Caliban), Kyle Blanchard (Caliban), Charis Bouldon (Antonia), Michael Sager (Boatswain), Brandon Farrar (Ship Master), Zack Bucky Buckner (Alonso), Nick Carrano (Sebastian), John Paul Fox (Gonzalo), Jameson Clanton (Trinculo), Blake West (Stephano), and Lindsay LeeElizabeth TheuneKyra CarranoMichael SagerBrandon Farrar (Ensemble/Puppeteers).

Summary of The Tempest: Prospero uses magic to conjure a storm and torment the survivors of a shipwreck, including the King of Naples and Prospero’s treacherous brother, Antonio. Prospero’s slave, Caliban, plots to rid himself of his master, but is thwarted by Prospero’s spirit-servant Ariel. The King’s young son Ferdinand, thought to be dead, falls in love with Prospero’s daughter Miranda. Their celebrations are cut short when Prospero confronts his brother and reveals his identity as the usurped Duke of Milan. The families are reunited and all conflict is resolved. Prospero grants Ariel his freedom and prepares to leave the island.

Recyclable trash helps to create the theatrical magic of The Tempest.

Past BRAC Shakespeare in the Park performances have been in cooperation with Forte Theatrical Productions and included A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo and Juliet, and a Rock version of Hamlet. Each of these productions were held outdoors on the pavilion stage in Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park, and the Branson Regional Arts Council thanks the City of Hollister and the Hollister Parks Department for their support and cooperation in making these community events possible.

September 15, 2021 The Branson Regional Arts Council announces two important upcoming events for Art enthusiasts and members of the Arts Council (1) NEW ARTIST RECEPTION AT THE BRANSON CONVENTION CENTER The general public is invited to attend a New Artist Reception at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery on the 2nd Level Concourse in Downtown Branson. This FREE Community Arts Event will be held on Friday, September 24, 2021 from 6-8pm This will be an evening of incredible artistry, as we introduce several new artists joining the Art Gallery Exhibition. A complete list of artists in this exhibition will be announced soon. Several of the featured artists will be attending the reception to discuss their work, and members of the Branson Regional Arts Council Board will be there to answer any questions. Refreshments and hors d’oeuvres will be available as well. Bring yourself, or a group of friends and enjoy this FREE community event!

Deceased Board Member and Beloved Friend of the Arts, Robert Cohn, enjoyed an earlier Artist Reception. His dedication and hard work to initiate and develop the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery will not be forgotten.

(2) ANNUAL MEMBER MEETING AT THE HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE In addition, the 2021 Annual Member Meeting will take place on Thursday, September 30, 2021 from 6:00pm until 6:30pm at the Historic Owen Theatre, and will provide an opportunity for elections of new board of directors as well announcements regarding several new, exciting events and theatrical performances slated for 2022. Anyone wishing to stay after the meeting to attend a performance of Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 The Musical is asked to purchase their tickets in advance by calling the box office at 417-336-4255 or online at BransonArts.org/tix.

September 15, 2021

The Branson Regional Arts Council announced today that the final four performances of 9 to 5 The Musical are postponed for two weeks due to illness amongst some of the cast members. The final performance dates are now slated for Sept 30 – Oct 2 at 7pm, and Oct 3 at 2pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson.

All pre-ticketed patrons who were planning to attend the performances at the Historic Owen Theatre this weekend will be contacted by theatre staff as soon as possible and were emailed the following statement today:

“Yesterday a couple of our cast members of 9 to 5 The Musical tested positive for covid-19. Out of precaution for our patrons, cast and staff we are postponing the final four performances by two weeks to allow plenty of time for quarantine by anyone who may have been affected.

We apologize for this inconvenience and appreciate your support as we do what is necessary and right for the health and safety of everyone. We expect the cast members will fully recoup and be ready to safely return to the stage after a two-week delay. If anything changes in that regard, however, we will contact you just as soon as possible with updates.”

Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

[fac_icon icon=”caret-right”] Reserved seat tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

9 to 5 The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie.

Rated PG-13 |Some Adult Language & Situations

Set in the late 1970s. This hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic. Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss.

In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy – giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains “otherwise engaged,” the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?

This high-energy show is not only a blast for those on the stage, but also for everyone in the audience! With its jubilant score and easily relatable characters, 9 to 5 is the perfect show to bring to our community this September.

The production is directed by Kyle Bradley with vocal direction by Lloyd Alexander-Holt, and choreography by Jordan Alexander-Holt. Photography by Marshall Meadows.

Featured is a hilarious and talented cast including: Julie Musser (Violet Newstead), Kellsey Bradley (Doralee Rhodes), Brenna Bergeron (Judy Bernly), Ryan Mattix (Franklin Hart, Jr.), Mindy Law (Roz Keith), Lucas Dahlgren (Dwayne), Joey Blackwood (Joe), Payton Miller (Josh Newstead), Renee Elkady (Maria), Justin Bridges (Dick), Joseph Donathan (Bob Enright), Amy Miller (Kathy / Missy Hart), Annie Sullivan (Margaret) and Ellen Barney, Emily Hanner, Jerry CookLacey Kellett, Sarah Williams, Megan Rodgers , Emily Vickers (Ensemble).

After five busy weeks of rehearsals and pre-show preparation, the Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to present the smash hit production 9 to 5 The Musical at the Historic Owen Theatre with eight performances running between September 9 – 19, 2021.

Reserved seat tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

9 to 5 The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie.

Rated PG-13 |Some Adult Language & Situations

Set in the late 1970s. This hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic. Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy – giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains “otherwise engaged,” the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?

This high-energy show is not only a blast for those on the stage, but also for everyone in the audience! With its jubilant score and easily relatable characters, 9 to 5 is the perfect show to bring to our community this September.

The production is directed by Kyle Bradley with vocal direction by Lloyd Alexander-Holt, and choreography by Jordan Alexander-Holt. Photography by Marshall Meadows.

Featured is a hilarious and talented cast including: Julie Musser (Violet Newstead), Kellsey Bradley (Doralee Rhodes), Brenna Bergeron (Judy Bernly), Ryan Mattix (Franklin Hart, Jr.), Mindy Law (Roz Keith), Lucas Dahlgren (Dwayne), Joey Blackwood (Joe), Payton Miller (Josh Newstead), Renee Elkady (Maria), Justin Bridges (Dick), Joseph Donathan (Bob Enright), Amy Miller (Kathy / Missy Hart), Annie Sullivan (Margaret) and Ellen Barney, Emily Hanner, Jerry CookLacey Kellett, Sarah Williams, Megan Rodgers , Emily Vickers (Ensemble).

Congratulations to the following cast and crew of the Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of The Sound of Music with eight performances at the Historic Owen Theatre on Dec 2 – 4 & 9 – 12, 2021. Advance reserved tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

“There were so many talented actors who participated in the auditions, and it was a very difficult challenge for our directors and producers to make the final casting selections. Big thanks to everyone who tried out, and we hope to work with the rest of you soon in a future production.”
Jim Barber – BRAC Executive Director

The Sound of Music is under the direction of Jacob Deck (Director) and Delyla Uebel (Music Director). Cast members include:

  • Hayden Gish (Maria Rainer)
  • Jen Frost (Mother Abbess)
  • Tricia Bush (Mother Abbess understudy)
  • Esther Weicht (Sister Berthe)
  • Mindy Law (Sister Margaretta)
  • Julie Brinkman (Sister Sophia)
  • Jerrod Cate (Captain Georg von Trapp)
  • Loran Polson (Frau Schmidt, housekeeper)
  • Emma Puerta and Talya Tinoco (Liesl von Trapp)
  • Pace Gillman and AJ Turner (Friedrich von Trapp)
  • Sophie Douglas and Abby Wheeler (Louisa von Trapp)
  • Lee Brown and Liam Hill (Kurt von Trapp)
  • Kylee Chandler, Savannah Turner and Johanna Thornsberry (Brigitta von Trapp)
  • Lundyn Mitchell and Jael Frost (Marta von Trapp)
  • Zoey Viola and Emma Chandler (Gretl von Trapp)
  • Cole Hill (Rolf Gruber)
  • Charis Boulden (Elsa Schraeder)
  • Amy Sorenson (Ursula)
  • Randy Simmon (Max Detweiler)
  • Dylan Pratt (Herr Zeller, swing for Franz)
  • Anna Weicht (New Postulant)
  • Melody Snyder, Judy Starrett and Beth Lambeth (Ensemble: Neighbors of Captain von Trapp, nuns, novices, postulants, contestants at Festival concert).

SYNOPSIS

The final collaboration between Richard Rodgers & Oscar Hammerstein II, The Sound of Music, has become a play beloved around the world. Based on the true story of the 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 tale 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, with laughter, and with music.

In the process, Maria wins the hearts of all seven children–and their widower father, Captain von Trapp. With the Mother Abbess’ blessing, and to the children’s delight, Maria follows her heart, and Maria and the Captain marry.

Upon returning home from their honeymoon, Maria and the Captain learn that their beloved Austria has been taken over by the Nazis, and the retired Captain is asked to report for immediate service in the Nazi Navy. When the Nazis show up at their door to take Captain von Trapp away, it is a family singing engagement (wily navigated by their friend Max) that buys the family time to make their narrow escape.

Their Austrian convictions compel Maria, the Captain, and the children to flee over the mountains of Switzerland to safety, taking the words of the Mother Abbess to heart: “Climb Every Mountain… till you find your dream.”