By Kyle Ridley/For the News & Messenger
Published: May 8, 2008

It takes some mighty big feet to fill the shoes of a classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical. Fortunately, the Fauquier Community Theatre's talented cast and crew are the perfect fit in its current production of "The Sound of Music," playing at in Vint Hill through May 18.

This heartwarming story of Maria, an aspiring nun who becomes a governess for the Von Trapp family, is one of those timeless tales that uplifts whenever revisited. Love, laughter, drama, war and unforgettable tunes—this show is the complete package.

Set among the Austrian mountains, the production launches with opening number "The Sound of Music" and Heather DeSalme, playing Maria, twirling onstage and singing the classic song made famous by Julie Andrews. As soon as the opening lyrics of "the hills are alive…" are heard, you realize you're in for a treat.

DeSalme is the production's driving force and her stage presence amplifies with every song.

The nuns of the Nonnberg Abbey, led by Mother Abbess (Shelly Schubert), take center stage on songs "Maria" and "Gaudeamus Domino." They are a dynamic, 16-member choir and their blended vocals fill a room with haunting sounds and stirring emotion.

Schubert is the standout player of the evening. Her breathtaking rendition of "Climb Every Mountain" is a spine-tingling, shiver inducing, goose-bump-causing experience. Just when you think she can't go any higher, she flawlessly raises the bar.

FCT kicks into high gear during fun-filled numbers "Do-Re-Mi," "So Long, Farewell" and yodel-influenced "The Lonely Goatherd."

Despite limited stage space, each scene is reminiscent of the 1965 film and the cast never lets the lack of room hinder performance.

On "My Favorite Things," DeSalme and the seven Von Trapp actors sing of "raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens" while dancing around a small pull-out bed in their pajamas. Their excitement fuels the crowd and creates a head-bopping, foot-stomping sing-a-long.

The play's sweet and subtle songs also satisfy.

Ken Galvin, playing Captain Von Trapp, quietly captivates with his moving version of "Edelweiss," during which he plays guitar.

Galvin takes his strong and steady voice down a notch, fully capturing the character's vul-nerability while singing about his homeland being overcome by war.

Also noteworthy is Nancy Daugherty's portrayal of Baroness Schraeder. Daughtery is a vocal powerhouse and shines on "How Can Love Survive." It's a shame her stage time is limited; the confidence and vivacity she exudes could easily carry a one-woman show.

With nearly 40 players in the cast, 12 orchestra musicians and countless crew members, the group effort put into FCT's latest production is undeniable. The attention to detail from curtain-made costumes, a painted Austrian Alps background and intricate choreography, every aspect of the production is successful and deserving of applause.

Kyle Ridley can be reacheded at .

WANT TO GO?

What's up: Fauquier Community Theatre presents "The Sound of Music"

When: Friday, Saturday, May 16 and 17 at 8 p.m., Sunday and May 18 at 2 p.m.

Where: The Fauquier Community Theatre at Vint Hill, 4225 Aiken Drive, Warrenton

Tickets: $16 for adults, $14 for children, students and seniors over 60; May be purchased at the door or by phone at 540-349-8760

Info: Fctstage.org