__________________________________________________________________
I saw the first preview of The Sound Of Music (Friday
3rd November 2006) and can happily state that it's a FANTASTIC show....
despite starting 15mins late....
Points to mention:-
Connie Fisher is an EXCELLENT Maria... notably she can't (and doesn't)
play the guitar, the children learn how to sing in about 2 minutes and
then it all becomes a bit "cockney" with the dance routine - you will
see what I mean if you go...
Simon Shepherd (who withdrew from the production after two preview
performances - ed) - will have Rex Harrison turning in his grave as he has
stolen his act from "Dr Doolittle" - certainly NOT a singer, and really
not a great actor for this role.
Lesley Garrett is a MAGNIFICENT Mother Superior... I'm not a great
Lesley fan - but she was truly brilliant although she does get a bit
"northern" in some scenes... Lesley was also utterly gobsmacked by the
standing ovation she got from the first night crowd...
The scenery in this production is fascinating, the "mountains", "abbey"
and "Von Trapp home" are all amazing..
The main down point to this show is the amount of VERY young children in
the audience... Immediately behind me were 2 small children both under 4
who spent the entire performance singing along(!), asking questions
(where's Connie?) and fighting about sitting on their mother's knee....
I have no real issue about children being taken to the theatre - but
those "in charge" of them should realise that everybody else sitting
nearby has also paid full price for their tickets and would appreciate
hearing the dialogue going on on stage... I totally missed Maria and
Captain Von Trapp becoming engaged as there was a debate going on about
the colour of Maria's dress!!!!! (apparently the green one was "more
horrible")....
Other points to mention are that the bar staff outside were obviously
having a bottle smashing competition during the 2nd half of this show...
Maybe they should be told that we could hear them???... some of the mics
kept cutting out - but strangely we heard a thudding disco beat during
the 2nd half... perhaps the bar staff again???... Finally the
merchandise is fairly pricey and strangely none of it displayed in the
kiosks has prices on it... which caused a fairly large queue formed by
people asking the price and them coming away empty handed (whilst
shaking their heads!)
Any way... go and see this one - quite a few changes from the film - and
a better show than the previous Petula Clark incarnation... just beware
of small children who want to test their vocal chords in the
audience.....
Al
_____________________________ I was delighted by the first preview performance
of The Sound of
Music on Friday 3rd November.
Connie Fisher as Maria was word and note perfect. A beautiful voice
and very talented actor.
I was disappointed by Simon Shepherd's Captain Von Trapp. His
performance was not as good as the rest of the cast, children
included, which surprised me as he is an experienced actor. I am not,
therefore, surprised to discover he has been replaced after only 2
shows. His singing was, ...... well, not important now as Alexander
Hanson will be taking the reins at the end of the week.
The children's cast that appeared were terrific, mastering some
tricky vocal and choreographic sequences with only a very small
hiccup, not worthy of further mention.
The highlight, as expected however, is Lesley Garret as the Mother
Superior. She fully deserved the standing ovation she was overwhelmed
to receive. Truly exceptional voice.
A few small sound dips, during the spoken words not the singing, were
being closely scrutinised by Lord Lloyd Webber himself. He spent the
entire show in the sound box at the back of the stalls. Supervising
things like the perfectionist he is said to be.
The set design is also worth a mention. The mountains are represented
well and I particularly loved them at the end as the Von Trapps look
down into Switzerland, their journey over.
I didn't experience any of the problems the previous reviewer did
with the younger audience members. All the young children in the area
of the stalls in which we were seated, behaved impeccably, my own two
included, I'm pleased to say.
To include a small negative, just for balance, the stalls bar was
very thin on bar staff. Now its not as if they didn't expect it to be
busy!
So get yourselves along to the Palladium and experience this fabulous
show.
Helen
_______________________ I attended the preview performance on Tuesday 7th
November 2006 at the invitation of SEE Tickets and for me this is as good as it
gets. I didn't think there was a weak link and it was much more enjoyable than
the Petula Clark version 24 or so years ago. No one could possibly guess that
Connie Fisher has come over night from obscurity to stardom. I am sure she can
only get even better but she is superb (so is her cd Favourite Things- well
worth buying). Lesley Garrett certainly shows the other Nuns how it should be
done and following the sacking of Simon Shepherd, his understudy Christopher
Dickins did an excellent job as Captain Von Trapp; the children deserved the
standing ovation on their own especially little Gretl who had a lovely voice.
All the children were delightful.
Connie Fisher has assured herself of a place in Musical Theatre history by
winning the first ever tv public vote for a leading role in a major musical and,
like all before her who are the first to break into a new field, she and Andrew
Lloyd Webber have their critics for choosing a Maria in this way, however it was
evident from the moment that Connie started singing, through massive applause,
that here is a phenomenon. She is the living example that dreams can come true
for all those stage struck young tots; teen-agers; or young adults who, whether
they have talent or not, dream of stardom, shae has real talent and she did not
dissappoint them. She carried the role as if she was born to it.
We were in
row C of the Royal Circle. Super unrestricted view but as has been said so many
times about The Palladium 'don't go in the Royal Circle if you have long legs'.
I'm 6' 2" and not only was there a mountain on stage I had one sitting next to
me. About 20 stone covered in a pink pullover. His legs were so fat he couldn't
put them together so mine were wedged against the seat in front and with the
elevation of the circle it meant the sharp edge of the top of the seat was
wedged against the bone just below my knee. It is still painful to the touch now
2 days later.
My test of the success of a show is threefold 1) Did it get a standing ovation?
2) Do the songs ring through your head on the way home and the following day?
and 3) Did I come out of the theatre thinking "I've got to see this again .
1) People started standing first for the children; then more for Lesley Garrett
and then most of the theatre were standing roaring their applause for Connie 2)
The songs were ringing through my head all this morning and 3) I have a three
coach group of 159 booked to see it on March 21st . I can't wait!
The stage and scenic effects are excellent especially the Mountain, however I am
sure there will be some mealy mouthed critic who will try to give this show a
bad time but if they do just ignore them and get a ticket as soon as you can.
West End Musical Theatre just doesn't come any better than this.
__________________________ A friend and I went to see the preview matinee on
Saturday, 11 November 2006 and were bowled over. Connie Fisher was magnificent –
absolute magic, both in terms of singing and acting. The children were
universally excellent, as were all the others members of the cast with a sad
exception being Captain von Trapp (Alexander Hanson), whose singing was no match
for Connie Fisher; his performance could at best be described as careful, but in
fairness he has been brought in at short notice.
The orchestra were in wonderful form and added much to the whole experience.
There were some real ‘shivers down the spine’ moments, which is pretty good
considering how familiar the tunes are.
We were in the Upper Circle, K19 and K20. Excellent view, and just about enough
legroom to accommodate a 5’6” person without undue discomfort. The
all-too-common getting up during the performance was in evidence, sadly from
adults without children as well as the more understandable parent + tot – but
it’s easy to see why, when one of the ushers was happy to let people into their
seats in the middle of a row some ten minutes into the performance....
____________________ I went with a party of four on Friday 10 November
2006 and the overall consensus was that this is a marvellously presented musical
that will be a huge hit with audiences. We had seats 16-19 in Row D of the Dress
Circle which were a little tight leg-room wise but the view was excellent and at
least, being the tallest, I had an aisle seat to stick my leg down!
So what of the show? It will undoubtedly be a massive hit - it's got all the
feel-good factors that are required and the performances are largely superb.
Connie Fisher really was the correct choice as Maria - she's a natural with a
beautifully clear voice and good acting skills to boot. I can see her taking on
a number of leading lady roles for many years to come.
Alexander Hanson replaced Simon Shepherd as Captain von Trapp and whilst you
could see he had only recently taken over with a few fluffed lines, his voice is
very pleasant - although I found myself a little disappointed by his rendition
of Edelweiss.
Lesley Garrett as the Reverend Mother is in a different class - her acting may
be a little over theatrical but this is more than made up for when she belts out
Climb Every Mountain. If you don't feel the hairs sticking up on the back of
your neck, you must be bald!
The children are superb and all have surprisingly good voices - even the little
ones who have the 'aaah' factor times ten. Every lady sitting near me was wiping
away a tear when they finally hug their father - I simply had something in my
eye at the time - ahem!
There are a couple of songs that did not appear in the 1965 film - all sung
between the Captain, his fiancé Elsa and his friend Max - and to be honest, you
can see why. The songs are clumsy and unmemorable and the actors playing Elsa
and Max have the weakest voices in the show. The songs stand out like a sore
thumb against the polished gems that make up the rest of the musical numbers.
The sets are superb, especially the recreation of the mountain. The opening
scene when Maria first appears is quite magical. If I have any criticism, it's
that the second half doesn't quite live up to the first. Maybe we've been spoilt
by a surfeit of excellence in the first half but the second feels a little
hurried and less joined up - almost as if the director had looked at his watch
and decided they'd better wrap things up quickly as they're running out of time.
That aside, go and see this musical. It's not a hard-hitting contemporary take
on the film version. Style-wise, it's pretty much a faithful reproduction but
then why mess with a winning formula?
Tim Powell
_______________________ Went to see the show on Friday Evening (10th November
2006). Having read
the two previous reviews, most of what I would have said myself has already
been said and I thoroughly endorse the comments (including the adults in
no hurry to take their seats 10 minutes after the start and the usher bimbling
out slowly afterwards).
This is a cracking show that is undoubtedly going to be a huge success and
Connie Fisher shines and fully deserves to be the star she will/has become.
The scenery is excellent and the supporting cast are great too.
Connie was faultless, as were the children, and I am also sure the show will
mature (these are previews after all) and the small faults in the acting/lines
of a few of the remainder of the cast will iron out quickly as they become
totally familiar with their parts and the timing becomes second nature.
Although Connie was the best in the show all round, for me, Lesley Garret's
powerful performance of Climb Every Mountain stands out - it really does send
a shiver down the spine and really tires the emotions.
All in all, this show just makes you want to smile and you leave knowing
you have seen something special.
Dee C
_______________________ I'm afraid I'm going to be the first dissenting voice
here about The Sound of Music. We saw the 11th November 2006 performance and
left the theatre feeling that it had been, well, fine.
Perhaps as a result of not having watched the UK TV show which selected Connie
Fisher, and not being familiar with her or her voice, I found myself less than
impressed. She's an excellent novice actress, with a wonderful voice, and very
stilted acting skills. She is herself, playing Julie Andrews, playing Maria. Her
overly studied gawkiness was embarrassing to watch rather than sweet and
endearing, and her transformation in the second half to a more confidant and
serene woman was overly abrupt. Her scenes with the children were the best of
the lot.
Lesley Garrett was excellent and the only cast member who deserved the ovation
she received.
One aspect of the set also was a disappointment. The Von Trapp family home
reminded me of a lavishly budgeted university performance, not a West End show.
I found most of the transitions awkward and only two (I'll not spoil them, but
the music festival and the escape from the abbey were AMAZING and at the level I
expected from the entire show) really worked.
Oh, and the theatre? HOT. Unbearably, stiflingly hot. The ushers had ice water
available in the theatre but it didn't help and by the end of the performance,
the theatre reeked of overheated audience.
I will say that our seats (royal circle, C 31 & 32) were very good and the view
was perfect. Leg room is cramped, but not dire. Just check your bags and coat
and unless you've got unusually long legs, you'll do just fine.
See the show. Why not? But don't go expecting it to be the best you've seen in
years or you'll leave in a vague, bemused fog like we did.
K Fried
_________________________ My wife and I saw the preview performance on
Saturday November 11th 2006 (7.30pm) and without question enjoyed our most
memorable theatre experience ever!
The Palladium is the perfect venue for this marvellous production and all credit
should go to ALW for his brave – and as it has proved – inspired decision to use
a TV reality show to find his leading lady.
The budget for the show must run into millions, but the money on the set and
scenery mechanics was well spent, with a seamless transition from mountains, to
abbey, to villa, to garden and so on.
Alexander Hanson, after only a week’s rehearsal, played to perfection the proud
but stubborn Captain Georg von Trapp, who has forgotten how to love life,
himself and his children.
The youngsters were a delight – with beautifully drawn characterisations, and
faultless singing and movement – some real talent on show here.
We also particularly warmed to Ian Gelder as Max the opportunist – great comic
timing.
There was some clever choreography by Arlene Phillips and a lovely sound from
the orchestra.
In such an outstanding production, it seems unfair to pick out any performances
for special praise. However Lesley Garrett’s rendition of Climb Ev’ry Mountain
was an intensely moving end to the first act, and we can forgive her limited
acting ability when she has a voice that resonates so magnificently round the
auditorium.
Which brings us, finally, to Connie Fisher.
Connie commanded the stage from her first entrance and gave no hint that this
was her first role on a West End stage.
She has a beautiful voice, great acting ability (including some lovely comic
touches), can dance and looks great. Well done girl – you’re a star!
As a six-footer I struggled for leg room in our Upper Circle seats (J 7-8) but
the view of the stage was mostly unrestricted, although if you don’t like
heights – and it all became a bit too much for one heavily pregnant lady in the
row in front of us – sit lower down.
However, when you see theatre as good as this, you forget about any discomfort
as you are swept along on this intoxicating journey through the Austrian alps.
Climb ev’ry mountain to get a ticket to this outstanding production!
Richard Neal
________________________ I went to see "The Sound of Music" on 25th November
2006, evening performance. Unfortunately because of an excess of wax in my left
ear I had more a mono rather than a full stereo performance. The sound was
excellent and I only missed a few words of dialogue, wouldn't have missed any if
my ear had been alright.
I managed to get seat number 27 in row J Dress/Royal Circle. I was a little
worried about the info on this site which said "the top of the stage isn't
visible from row J back" but this is of no consequence, certainly not for this
production. I am 5ft 8 and had no problem with the legroom and unlike the Monkey
I would willingly sit in the dress circle if given a free ticket! I was in my
seat at 7.10pm. No reason was given, but the show started 11 minutes late, so I
was there for about 2 hours before the interval came. I did feel a little
distant from the stage and think the Upper Circle rows C to G (in the centre
block of course) may well give a similar view, and £20 saving on top price.
I have never seen all of the film and because I'm not keen on talent type
competitions didn't watch any of the TV programmes to find Maria, so I came to
the production never having heard Connie sing more than a few notes which were
shown on various news programmes after she was announced as the winner. I knew I
was in for a good evening the moment Maria appeared on that hill and sang that
song, what a magical entrance. Connie Fisher was excellent, although I thought
she appeared a little too self confident in the early scenes with The Mother
Abbess, a little more humility would have been in order.
Alexander Hanson did seem a bit wooden at the beginning, but maybe that is
how he is supposed to be in playing a strict father who has no apparent love for
his children. The children were wonderful, and for me their best song was "doh
re, me" what a combination of co-ordinated hand movements, skilful interplay and
what fun! Every scene with the children and Maria was lovely. Ian Gelder was
very good as Max, and out of the songs he sang with the Captain and the
Baroness, the one in the second act was the better of the two.
I was humming 'Climb Every Mountain' on my way to the theatre and Lesley
Garrett's rendition made me tingle all over, so uplifting and memorable. I
thought the interval curtain came down too quickly after this song. The scenery
behind them was changing to an azure blue sky and it would have been nice to
savour this for a few seconds more.
The second act started with 'Lonely Goat Herd', don't know why, but it was
fun anyway. The Monkey told me the second act was about 40 minutes long, so I
started my stop watch from the moment the orchestra started the prelude and it
was 50 minutes in length (obviously took it slower that night! - editor). Not
ever having seen the film all the way through I didn't know there was a music
festival, but this was done very well. The Nazis, and full length drapes with
Swastikas gave a menacing feeling to the proceedings. Doing the festival as a
show within a show in front of the curtains gave them time to get the hill ready
for the memorable final scene. The place erupted and everyone stood when Connie
made her bow. I wondered what the rest of the cast may think about all this hype
for her, but taking the applause she was keen to get them involved and certainly
didn't act like a prima-donna. I was ready to stand and applaud the moment it
ended, but everyone in the dress circle was sitting and being British I stayed
seated! I It was a wonderful evening, really enjoyable, would have been even
better in stereo! There are many tickets available for 4th December 2006 when
Connie won't be appearing. The understudy would seem to have a thankless task
replacing her on that day, but this production with it's songs of universal
appeal, great orchestra, sound and sets is good enough to succeed in running for
a long time after she has finished. Hottest ticket of the year? You bet it is!
*********
Tuesday 30th January 2007 was my second time of seeing "The Sound of Music."
Think of all the superlatives you can and that is how good this production is.
All your worries disappear as you spend an evening entranced and the cast's
enjoyment of performing is so infectious you feel like getting out of your seat
to join in. And what more can be said about Lesley Garrett's voice, apart from
it would fill all the theatres in the West End combined without a microphone.
Exhilarating!
In my previous review (above), I mentioned that
sitting in the middle of row E of the Upper Circle may be just as good as the
middle of row J in the Dress Circle which was where I was seated last time. At
£20 cheaper it is tempting and may just be worth it - but don't go further back
than row F, and certainly don't bother with rows A to D unless at a last resort.
Row E in the Upper Circle is quite a good view. You are able to avoid the
leaners in row A and those in row B who are trying to look over the top of the
leaners. You are aware of the metal bar at the front of the Upper Circle , but
it appears in your eyeline at the front of the stage and is just out of the way.
However, the leg room is dire, worse than the dress circle and I am only 5ft 8.
Stephen.
__________________________ We saw the performance on Tuesday 28th November 2006
with a group of 65 travelling from Berkshire.
This is an early start performance at 7.00 pm and majority of the audience were
in-situ well before this time (I spotted two late-comers only arriving at 7.25
pm!) - there was a real buzz about the theatre and as the lights dimmed and the
announcer reminded everyone to switch off their mobiles, everyone was praying
that Connie was not to be replaced. An audible sigh of relief when it was "only"
Sister Margareta's understudy.
The whole production was superb - my husband put it in a nutshell at the end
when he said he was "Entranced from beginning to end".
Connie was fantastic - so fresh, so lively, so assured, with beautiful diction
and strong singing - she certainly had a good rapport with the children.
Lesley Garrett was outstanding as the Mother Abbess - Climb Every Mountain sent
shivers down my spine.
The Children were exceptional - talented without being precocious and very well
disciplined - of course little Gretl stole everyone's hearts she was so sweet -
at the end she was waving and following the curtain going down, ending up on her
stomach but still waving.
Alex Hanson was very good too as Captain Von Trapp - although it takes longer to
warm to his character. Lauren Ward was also good in probably a thankless role
but not as elegant as Eleanor Parker in the film.
I particularly enjoyed Ian Gelder as Max Detweiler - he had some nice comic
lines that he delivered with aplomb.
Probably the most difficult aspect to achieve on stage for this production was
the Austrian scenery but Robert Jones must be congratulated on some on the most
impressive scenery to appear on the West End stage - the lighting also was
fantastic.
Sound too was faultless with every word being heard clearly but not too loudly.
Well as you can tell I was impressed and urge you to try and buy a ticket if you
can - not sure what will happen on Connie's first night off but I am sure it
will run and run.
The standing ovation at the end was a tribute to the whole cast in a fine
ensemble piece - well done to everyone - we are already talking about arranging
another trip in six months time.
Our seats were in the Dress Circle Row H numbers 25 to 28 and have to say there
seemed to be plenty of leg-room even for my husband who is 6 feet tall - however
the bloke behind me seemed to find it hard not to keep kicking my seat
especially during Do-Re-Mi which rather had me on edge for that number - a few
choice stares seemed to make him realise he wasn't at home on the sofa able to
lounge about regardless.
__________________________ What can I say about "The Sound of Music" - an
absolutely wonderful show filled with great classic songs, fantastic acting from
from all of the cast especially Connie Fisher, Lesley Garret and the Children. A lovely show which has lots of happiness and also parts which are really
emotional. I went on a sold out night and I think it is booked up for quite a
few months so tickets are hard too come by. One of the best shows in London.
Congratulations to Andrew Lloyd Webber for staging his version of such a
wonderful much loved musical, you can tell that Andrew has made his mark on the
show. Worth every penny you spend on a ticket.
April.
Stoke-On-Trent.
_________________________ I went to see the show "The Sound Of Music" on Saturday 30th December 2006. I
voted for Connie and she did a grand job - although in my opinion slightly
overacts? Sometimes, in my opinion, she didn't seem natural enough? Lovely
voice. Hit the notes wonderfully with her singing.
The highlight for me was 'Climb Every Mountain' with Leslie Garret -
magnificent. Brought a lump to most peoples throats. The children were also
brilliant, but I was disappointed in the baroness. The low of the show for me
was when captain was told by the baroness the wedding was off - a very weak
point and not very realistic - as the film!!! I also thought the point when the
German messenger boy found them hidden in the garden that was not very well
done!!! A very good show, thoroughly enjoyed it, but because the film was so
extra brilliant thought the stage show lacked a little "something" but not sure
what!! Some of the scenery and props were really magnificent but alas some of it
was also poor! I have seen better stage musicals but did enjoy it and would go
again (and am!!)
Christina Brooks
__________________________ Myself and my mum went down to London last week. We had not booked for 'The
Sound of Music' but hoped that we would manage to get day tickets. We asked at
the box office what time we should start queuing the next day for the day
tickets. We were told that around 9.30am would be fine. I decided to go earlier
as we had travelled all the way from Scotland and didn't want to miss out. I
arrived at the box office at 8am and the tickets went on sale at 10am. I worked
it out that, with the box office selling 20 day tickets and most people queuing
for 2 tickets each, anyone who arrived after 8.35am would have missed out. There
was a queue of around 40 people by 8.45am and only the first 10 to 15 people
would have got tickets. I was lucky enough to get A16 and 17, which is slightly
off centre (so the conductor was not in our way) but not too far to the side for
much action to be obstructed by actors' backs. I would thoroughly recommend this
way of obtaining tickets for the production, as they are only 20 pounds each and
offer an excellent view of the casts faces, especially the adorable children.
These tickets are well worth it, and I would recommend turning up early to get
the best ones.
I hope this advice helps other people.
Elaine,
Scotland
__________________________ "The Sound of Music" (3rd January 2007) was incredible, Connie is truly lovely
as Maria and I was so happy for see her up there living her dream. She really
looks like she's living on cloud 9, although without the whole Diva attitude!!!
The kids are fantastic, but then they always are in musicals. Makes me wonder
why they don't get talented kids for TV, the kids in soaps are always shocking
actors!!!
Lesley Garrett I thought was fab when singing, but her acting lets her down,
which is strange as she acts
beautifully during her songs. Overall a great show, the set at the end is
incredible, great finale, not too sure about the choreography........ although I
never have really like Arlene Phillips' stuff!!
__________________________ We saw this on Saturday matinee, 20th January 2007. Our seats in row G of the
stalls (thanks to Theatremonkey and dogged persistence at the box office) were
excellent, a perfect view.
The whole show was a delight from start to finish. We had two 7 year olds with
us and they were entranced, especially by the very cute kids who, luckily,
appear often. Special credit must go to the set designer as the sets are
fabulous, especially the mountains. The Nazi scene in the concert at the end is
also very atmospheric and eerie. We loved the kids, of course, and Alexander
Hanson as Captain von Trapp was excellent, as was Lesley Garrett – her “Climb
every mountain” gives you goosebumps and is a fitting climax to both acts. As
for Connie’s Maria, she is lovely, very natural and her voice was gorgeous. I
think she makes an excellent Maria and judging by the whoops and cheers in the
standing ovation, most of the audience agreed with me.
I am very glad I booked this so early and got to see it! It was a perfect
introduction to the West End for my 7 year old (who is already in training to be
the next Marta!).
Mila
__________________________ We went to see 'The Sound of Music' at the London Palladium on 30th January 2007
and can’t understand all the praise – particularly for Connie Fisher. We found
the whole thing totally underwhelming.
To make matters worse, we had the most degenerate, annoying audience we've ever
sat with in the West End - and we go to shows every week of the year.
Top marks to the orchestra and indeed the overall sound. Brilliant! However,
Connie Fisher was disappointing. Her singing was lacklustre and her acting
lacked heart. Furthermore, the story was rushed, the sets were boring, and the
only really really good bit was hearing Lesley Garrett's roof-raising version of
'Climb Every Mountain,' which was so brilliantly euphoric it gave me goose
bumps.
The audience was a total rabble. We were sat in an aisle in the stalls and the
first half was spoilt by people arriving late. There used to be a policy in most
West End theatres whereby if you arrive after curtain-up you have to wait until
the interval to get in. Seemingly, things have been relaxed so there were people
mooching down the aisles looking for their seats throughout the whole first half
of the show. We also had a group of girls behind us who couldn’t go three hours
without stuffing their faces, and people to the side of us who were chatting
non-stop until I bonked one over the head with my London Lite newspaper.
I hate to jump on this bandwagon which likes to poke and prod anything Andrew
Lloyd Webber does, but on this occasion I can’t believe what a pigs ear he’s
made of such a legendary musical. Incidentally, last night (14th February 2007)
I went to see a new Musical at the Greenwich Theatre which starred Emma Williams
– the girl who recently quit as Maria when Connie Fisher won the lead role. I’m
convinced she would have made a far better job of Maria than Connie.
At the end we refused to join in with standing ovation for Connie, because that
final gesture was just as hyper-nauseating as Connie’s acting.
James.
Maidstone
________________________ Connie Fisher was back on at the Palladium tonight (19th February 2007) after a
longish absence through illness. The bad news was that Alexander Hanson was off
so Captain von Trapp was played by the first understudy, Christopher Dickens.
I thought Connie was absolutely wonderful. She was the right age, looked the
part, sang the music beautifully with a clear, pure tone, and acted convincingly
in a naturalistic way. I also liked the six children. Unfortunately my enjoyment
of the performers ended there. Lesley Garrett sang well enough (and certainly
loud enough) but lacks the acting skill to bring adequate weight to the Mother
Superior, and Christopher Dickens was far too lightweight to make Captain von
Trapp at all convincing.
The four supporting principals -- the Baroness, Lisl, Max and Rolf -- were all
frightful. They gave hard, forced performances, with ugly, edgy singing, and
their dialogue was harsh and over-wrought, even before they all became Nazis and
got even more wound up. I assume this exaggerated acting style was down to the
director, Jeremy Sams, but it even spread to the orchestra pit, where the score
often sounded coarse and vulgar.
So it is quite surprising, and greatly to her credit, that Connie resisted all
this and shone brightly like a genuine human being in the centre of the show
despite what was happening around her. I therefore give Connie Fisher ten out of
ten, and nil points to everyone else except the children! The packed house loved
it, apart from the smaller children who clearly hated 'Climb Every Mountain' and
got noticeably fidgety when the time came for Captain von Trapp to declare his
love for Connie and kiss her. I suppose it would be bad for business, but I
would suggest in the interests of everybody, including the children, that
parents and grandparents should resist taking their little darlings to sit
through the whole of 'The Sound of Music' or 'Mary Poppins', and just stay at
home and play the DVD for them!
__________________________ Disappointed to say the least after seeing the show on February 21st 2007. No
prior notice that Connie Francis was not available, plus Leslie Garrett missing
and a different Von Trapp - the stand ins did alright but it was like buying a
Mercedes and getting a Skoda
Ray Wootten
Grantham
_________________________ I bought tickets to see Connie in "The Sound of Music" in October 2006 for 14th
February 2007, for myself and and my husband. We both supported the TV show, and work very hard. We don't often get to go
anywhere much because of our circumstances. We flew down from Manchester, saw
"Les Mis" at the Queens Theatre (that was fantastic), then we walked down to the
Palladium to see Connie in "The Sound of Music." Now we knew about Lesley Garret not going to be there, can you imagine our
horror when we discovered Connie was not there either. We were gutted to say the
least, most of the audience were gob-smacked too.
Then when we got home on the Thursday, we saw on the web site released on 14th
February about Connie and you could have taken your tickets back to point of
sale for a exchange. Nice of them, bit late for us. I have written to the
producer letting him know of our disgust. It should have been spread all over
the TV, press etc. They don't care, they have the money. It spoiled our trip
down there.
I will not be supporting any more shows on TV again. Liz,
Manchester.
This reader was subsequently offered free tickets by the producer for a return
visit. Editor.
________________________ I bought tickets for my sister, niece and I to see "The Sound of Music" on 28th
February 2007 (matinee), we had been fans of the search for Maria that Connie
Fisher won and that was one of reasons for us going to see the show, also a 40th
Birthday present for my sister Kim.
Sophie Bould was excellent as Maria and it must have been going through her mind
that most people had come to see Connie, she and the whole cast were absolutely
fantastic and my thirteen year old niece (who's name is also Sophie) did not
take her eyes from the stage from start to finish and I myself am now in love
with Captain Von Trapp.
We also had perfect viewing seats in the stalls L16, 17 and 18.
I would advise everyone to go and see this show. We will most definitely be
booking again.
Caryl
Trebanog, Rhondda, Porth,
South Wales.
________________________ I bought tickets in to see "The Sound of Music" as Christmas presents for myself
, sister and her 80 year old Mother-in-law. We made a special day of it as we
had matinee tickets for the performance on 28th February 2007. My sister's
mother-in-law is a big fan of Connie Fisher and was so excited about seeing her,
so you can imagine her disappointment when we arrived at the theatre to find
that not only was Connie Fisher not performing but Lesley Garrett was also
absent. But I have to say that thanks to the brilliant understudies who did an
excellent job! We thoroughly enjoyed the show, it just seems such a shame they
don't get the recognition they deserve for carrying on the show
Jan Cornish
________________________ I saw "The Sound of Music" for the second time on Saturday, 10th March 2007 and
I have to congratulate Sophie Bould for her excellent performance. I was
initially disappointed that Connie would not be performing but my fears were
unfounded as even without her and Lesley Garrett the show was still fantastic
and I can't wait to see it again.
Mary
________________________ The long awaited day arrived yesterday (21st March 2007) when 161 of us (3
coaches) descended on The London Palladium.
SEE Groups had informed me in advance that Sophie Bould would be singing Maria
and I later found at the box office that Connie will not be doing Wednesday
matinees in future.
I wanted my group to arrive fully prepared in the knowledge that they would not
be seeing Connie. The disappointment of finding out on entering the theatre that
the star will not be performing when you have so looked forward to it can really
spoil the start of the show no matter how well the understudy performs. I bought
the tickets in May 2006 at a time when Connie was still an unknown so none of
mine could complain. As a preparation I used the report from 'Mary' (shown
above) and it was read out on all three coaches. There was hardly any obvious
comment on the coach at the time as most had expected it might happen. The
result after the show was that without exception everyone I spoke to on my coach
and many from the others were not at all disappointed that we did not get
Connie. They all thought Sophie was terrific.
The following received from a group member afterwards is pretty typical of the
general feeling that came back to me after the show,
"Thank you for another FANTASTIC show. When I looked at my watch at half time
I couldn't believe it was an hour and a half. It went so quickly.
We certainly were not disappointed that the leading lady was not there, were we?
Sophie Bould was amazing and it's a pity she will not be playing that role on a
permanent basis. Lesley Garrett has an amazing voice and I'm sure that most of
us had a tear at some point during the show. We also enjoyed our meal, so a
lovely day all round."
There were times when Sophie was standing side face that she really looked just
like Connie and although I am a great Connie fan I do think that Sophie sings
just about as well as Connie.
It was pretty obvious that Sophie's hair had been prepared to look just like
Connie's. Could even have been a wig I suppose and I suspect that Sophie has
studied Connie very carefully in perfecting her own performance as she had just
the same mannerisms and way of walking etc. She deserves more recognition than
she is receiving.
For me it was one of the most enjoyable shows I have ever booked for. Not only
did I love the show myself, as much if not more than the preview, but all my
party were raving about it, many comments feeding back to me are that for many
this was the best show they have even seen; and several expressed amazement that
Sophie wasn't the star and felt she was so good she should be given the part.
Mind you they hadn't seen Connie perform it.
Sophie sings the part just as well as any of the girls on 'the search.' I have
to admit I would love to see it again with her playing the part (or anyone, it
was so good).
The only difference for me having seen Connie in the role during previews is
that Connie being already an established star received an instant standing
ovation with the audience roaring it's approval (I wonder if they still do that
at each performance) whereas for Sophie it was just very enthusiastic clapping.
There were a few starting to stand up and there would have been more had the
curtain not been dropped rather prematurely when another bow would have brought
more to their feet.
There is not a weak link in this show. Lesley Garrett is stupendous and all I
spoke to agreed that West End Musical theatre doesn't come any better than this.
Don't be put off if you find you are unable to get tickets for Connie. You will
love it but particularly if you know in advance who is singing.
___________________ I first went to see "The Sound Of Music" on stage in December 2006 and
thoroughly enjoyed it, but then thought there were several "flaws" that needed
sorting. I went again this evening March 24th 2007 and what a difference- it was
absolutely magnificent and all the wrinkles gone- a superb performance by
everyone, including the Captain and Maria (of course) and the powerful voice of
Leslie Garrett who once again brought tears to my eyes with her singing. The
show was very very well done indeed and cannot fault anything in it at all. Well
done to everyone - a great show - and also to the stage hands and electricians
who work so hard without any of the glory.
Christina Brooks
___________________ All principals apart from the Baroness performed at the Wednesday night show
(11th April 2007) I attended. Liking front stalls but not wishing to pay £55 I'd
opted for £20 day seats, and arrived at the box office at 8.15am to find myself
3rd in the queue. This secured me a good front row seat.
It's a good show but sounded a bit lost and echoey in the vast Palladium, which
I didn't much like - it was a bit like seeing a musical at Wembley Arena. For
me, top honours went to Alexander Hanson as the Captain, who seemed to provide
almost all the emotional content and high points. When he realises he's
regimented his children the way the Nazis are treating Austria, and thanks Maria
for bringing music back into his house, it's a beautiful lump-in-the-throat
moment. I also loved his hot flashes of anger at what he sees being done to his
country.
The children are terrific and gave great acting and singing performances. I
didn't watch the TV show but was very curious to see Connie Fisher, and am sorry
to say I can't quite share in the enthusiasm expressed by others. She has a
lovely voice, albeit a bit clinical, but was an insipid stage presence the night
I went. She showed some nice comic touches and overall was okay, but I want more
than that. Perhaps she had an off night, all I can say is that for me she just
didn't bring much to it.
___________________ I queued up with a friend for just before 8.00am yesterday (bank holiday 28th
May 2007) and we were the first. We got front row seats A8, A9, A10. These were
fabulous viewing - the view was fine, can't see the people's feet but not that
you would want to!!!.. anyway we didn't have Connie we had Aoife.. she was
amazing... breathtaking... she has such an amazing voice and plays the part so
well and is also very funny. All the cast were amazing, Captain Georg is
fabulous, everyone is - especially Mother Abbess played by Margaret Preece. For
£20 I got an amazing and thoroughly enjoyable show.. I am definitely going to go
again
___________________ Having seen the original cast perform twice I was interested to see how Aoife
Mulholland as Maria and Margaret Preece as The Mother Abbess would compare with
Connie Fischer and Lesley Garrett. My initial thoughts were that Aoife was a
clone of Connie and that Sophie Bould has a much better voice than both of them.
Margaret Preece is a very able Mother Abbess. Her rendition of Climb Every
Mountain was powerful, but Lesley Garrett's version will linger much longer in
the memory.
We were seated right in the middle of row R in the stalls and found the view to
be very good, apart from at the end where the escapees on the mountain were lost
for a few seconds as the mountain turned. Leg room was excellent.
All in all The SOM is still a great night out and should run and run.
__________________ I saw Aoife as Maria in June 2007. She is exactly the same as Connie, she
sounds like her, she acts like her and she even looks like her now - well from
where I was sitting, well standing actually as we got standing tickets for £20.
Bargain if you ask me, same view as the people sitting in front of us only they
paid an extra £25 just to sit down!!!
She was lovely and we popped to the stage door at the end and she comes out all
smiley with this Irish accent which sounds so strange after listening to her
speak with an extremely posh RP accent for three hours!!!
__________________ Went to see "The Sound of Music" on Thursday 28th of
June 2007. We were seated in Row M of the upper circle seats 43 to 46. Provided
a fab view for only £25 and I don't think it would be worth paying an extra £10
for seats 4 rows in front, especially if those seats were towards the far sides
of the theatre. My dad and I are both around 6ft tall and found the legroom to
be very good. Also, sitting here means you can lean forward for a completely
head-free view without disrupting other people.
The actual show was amazing. Connie Fisher is a real star and offers a good
all-round performance. We had the understudy for Captain Von Trapp (Christopher
Dickins) and he played the role brilliantly. Margaret Preece as Mother Abbess
had the most beautiful operatic voice in Climb Every Mountain. The children and
other cast members were also absolutely fantastic, and combined with the set
made a wonderful production. Was very impressed by the set, was a lot more
complex than I imagined it would be.
I was unfamiliar with the story to "The Sound Of Music" and the stage show gave
me a good introduction to it. It's just an entertaining night out with very
talented performers and would recommend to all.
__________________ Well, having just had my FIFTH visit to "The Sound
Of Music" this evening (20th July 2007) and saw Aoife as Maria, I have to say I
thought she was superb. Whilst Connie is brilliant, Aoife is every bit as good -
and in some places, in my opinion, even better. Very natural, beautiful voice,
and not disappointed at all. Its a marvellous show - must be if I've been 5
times - and it never ceases to thrill me. I always get a lump in my throat when
Mother Superior sings 'Climb Every Mountain' - anyone who can hit those notes
AND hold them has to be a superb opera singer, and a huge star in their own
right.
Well done to everyone and also to the back scene "boys and girls" who, along
with the orchestra, help make a very entertaining and well-worth-seeing show
Christina,
Highgate, London
_________________ I travelled down from Glasgow to take my daughter
and granddaughter to see "The Sound of Music" on 14th July 2007. We had seats
B37, 38 and 39 in the Royal Circle - the show was excellent but two points
spoiled our enjoyment. It was extremely hot in the theatre and there was very
little legroom between the rows of seats. Surely in this day and age it would be
possible to install air conditioning in the Palladium?
Gordon
_________________ Upper Circle, seat M41, 20th June 2007, £25: So this seat is right at the back but for me was
fine, end of row. View OK. You miss some of the higher stage elements (perhaps
the opening scene) but it doesn't distract too much (you use your imagination!)
and some of the top stairs. Connie made a minor blip (Captain Mother rather than
Reverend Mother and gave a look like the "Maltesers advert") but the whole show
is quality. I'm never a fan of the "precocious stage school
kids" but they were all excellent on this evening, some of their "stage school"
comrades were sat nearby and were appreciative.. Overall well entertained for
the ticket price. Film fans be aware there are differences from the film but on
reflection the running order of songs and sets is good.
_________________ Saturday 3rd November 2007, 2.30pm.
Managed to get some tickets from a well known operator at the last minute and so
glad we did. We were in the Stalls in row T and seats 15/16/17/18 on the end of
the central block. As these were the second tier prices, although the operator
discounted them even further to £39.95 they were excellent value. With a 5 and 7
year old in tow we were not sure how it would go, as they like to be closer to
the action, but no grumbles and with the eye glasses in use, albeit sparingly,
they did not move much, the kissing scenes being the exception! We got there
early to get the booster seats; but the rake is quite good at Row T. There were
a few younger children there and I think these find it a little long, the rush
to the toilets just before the first Act had finished was not appreciated -
especially as we were on the end row, perhaps filling the children with drinks
right up to maximum before the production starts is not the best idea?
As to the show it was superb and with enough differences to the film to make you
think this is not just a rehash of it, especially the slightly different order
of the songs and the ones that are not in the film. The Captain was perfect and
we were lucky enough to see Connie Fisher bring warmth and some surprising
humour to the role as well as a damn fine voice. The sound was fine where we
were and, as someone noted, you cannot see the top of the stage quite - but this
does not matter as all scenery is below it a little, so we did not miss
anything. All in all a great afternoon.
Paul Jones,
Cheltenham
___________________ Having been away for sometime (hospital theatres as opposed to West End theatres
have sadly featured) seeing "The Sound of Music" with Connie as Maria was a
welcome return. Connie Fisher lights up the entire stage, she looks and sounds
perfect for her role and when she had occasion to hug the children, you felt she
really meant it.
She is, of course, well supported by her fellow actors. Margaret Preece as the
Mother Abbess is a true pro and does not disappoint. The children are
delightful, possibly the best I’ve seen in any production; and when the captain
and Maria kiss – boy do they kiss! The audience was heard to collectively gasp,
one presumes with delight!
The set changes and costumes make you feel you are getting your money’s worth,
which is reassuring when, as we had, you’ve paid full price – Royal Circle Row F
24 - 27 – almost centre stage so good view of all the action and adequate leg
room.
We left the theatre happily humming all the old familiar tunes and feeling a
second visit would probably be money well spent.
Wednesday 7th November 2007
_____________________ I bought tickets on the advice given on 'theatremonkey.' All the reviews were
really helpful. So I thought I had better add mine. I bought the tickets for my
parents they sat in row X seats 1 and 2 in the stalls, my dad is tall and likes
an aisle so he can stretch his legs. They have informed me that the view was
brilliant, they couldn't make out facial expressions, but and they didn't suffer
from being next to the sound desk.
James,
Hampshire
_____________________ I finally got round to seeing this one on Saturday 24th
November 2007 and I have to say all in all I was a little
disappointed. Perhaps after 'Parade,' nothing was going to look
quite as good, but for my money 'Joseph' (similar hype but shorter,
cheaper, snappier and a LOT more dancing) and 'Mary Poppins'
(probably the most similar type of family blockbuster musical
currently in the West End - and again, a LOT more dancing) are both
better shows.
I bought tickets on the day, so I was told Connie wouldn't be in it,
but I'm not really sure that her presence would have changed my
opinion much. I had no problem with the cast, but more with the show
itself. The programme notes seem to suggest that the production is
attempting to distance itself from the hugely popular film,
something it never succeeds in doing. All the scenes that are not in
the show seem missing, and the ones that are in both seem like
tributes to a greater version. In the film the plot goes: 'Maria
arrives; horrible children play tricks on her, but she doesn't
react, realising their strict father is to blame; kids get scared in
a thunderstorm, so she comforts them and wins them over; exeunt to
mountain, cue singing.' In the play, she turns up, realises that one
of the kids is telling her the wrong name and has them singing
within about 20 seconds - not quite the same heartwarming
transformation. That said 'Do-Re-Mi' was the hit of the evening,
mainly due to the comedy, thigh slapping, hand waving choreography.
In general though, I do wonder that Arlene Phillips was paid at all,
considering the entire choreography seemed to consist of a single
twirl on the hillside, the aforementioned 'Do-Re-Mi' wiggling, an
uninspired waltz, and only a quick spin in 'Sixteen, Going On
Seventeen.' Whilst not a "dance musical", I think the whole audience
expected slightly more considering the legendary summerhouse scene
in the film, and the applause was definitely tainted by an "is that
it?" feeling.
That isn't to say the show is by any standard's "bad". The sets are
outstanding, and the highlight of the whole show, for me, was the
set change into the concert hall, the sound and costumes are
excellent, and the story works pretty well (even if it is
ludicrously schmaltzy). It's certainly worth seeing and is a big
step up from all of the jukebox musicals on offer. In the end
though, I'd probably rather just watch the film...
A.C.
_________________________ Is it just me or is the latest show that’s playing at the London Palladium the
worst the walls have ever seen (bar Chitty Chitty Bang Bang of course)?! The
last great show at the Palladium that I can remember was 'Saturday Night Fever'
in the late nineties. I can’t remember the last time I was so bored in a
theatre.
The new 'Sound of Music' was pretty awful! I have no faults with the costumes,
songs, book, sound, lighting or the theatre itself – which were all top notch,
but I do with the acting and directing. The actors looked lost and the
directions were not of a West End standard.
I was excited to see Connie Fisher in the role, which owned her, not the other
way around. In my opinion bad choice for Maria. I wish Scarlett Johansson hadn't
pulled out as she would have made a wonderful Maria as she is frankly a better
actor and a more suitable candidate for the role. The rest of the cast were not
that much better. The sets were fantastic, except the hill which was just a
green circle – very poor!
I went for the annual "16-25 Live" offer through See Tickets. The seats were D
10 and 11 in the Upper Circle, which I booked a few hours before curtain up. The
seats offer a full view of the stage as the railings appear just below the
stage. If I were to sit here again I would chose the centre block in rows D to F
only!
My advice is to go and see anything else but this! I can’t wait for this show to
close so the Really Useful Group can have another go at putting on something
better than this and other recent efforts! Maybe the new 'Oliver' or 'Spring
Awakening'? Management of the London Palladium: BE MORE SELECTIVE IN WHAT SHOWS
YOU CHOOSE TO OCCUPY YOUR THEATRE! THEATRE ISN'T JUST ABOUT COMMERCIAL VALUE!
James F
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