MoorArts will begin its summer performances of “The Sound of Music” on July 11, marking the 16th year MoorArts has put on a summer musical.
“As an art advocacy group, MoorArts is in a unique position,” Communications Director Candace Coleman said. “Our mission is to expose the community to art in every form, and our summer musical is a crucial part of that goal.”
The 36-member cast consists of performers from ages 9 through 60, all of whom come from the region and auditioned for their roles. Director Al Fuchs double cast the youngest members to give more budding performers a chance to shine, as well.
“We want to get as many people involved as possible,” Coleman said. “Our cast features some who have been performing for decades, and others who have never stepped onto a stage before. And that’s what we want. We want to give people a chance to find art.”
Fuchs, a Haddonfield resident, has played an integral part in the process, bringing with him a lot of the production crew. He also has a long history with “The Sound of Music,” having portrayed every male role during his more than 20 years with the musical.
“This is a show that touches every generation; almost everyone knows the lyrics,” Fuchs said. “I was inspired by the fact that it is based on a true story, and even had the chance to meet Maria Trapp while vacationing at the Trapp villa.”
The production will also feature a live 24-piece pit orchestra, which will showcase the score from the final collaboration between Rodgers and Hammerstein.
“We are very excited about every part of this musical,” Coleman said. “From the performers to the orchestra to the directors to the community, every part of this has been a wonderful experience, and it’s all for a good cause.”
The proceeds from the musical will fund student scholarships and teacher grants in the fine and performing arts.
“The more people we can get involved the better,” Coleman said. “We hope that the grants and scholarships we help fund will expose more students to the possibilities in art. Not just acting, but any art form.”
“The Sound of Music” will be performed on the stage of the Moorestown High School auditorium. The performances will take place at 8 p.m. on July 11,12,16,18 and 19; 7 p.m. on July 13; and 2 p.m. matinees on July 13 and 19. For ticket information, visit www.MoorArts.org or call (609) 929–5596.
Also new this year is an enhanced version of the performance for the July 19 matinee that will broaden the accessibility to guests with special needs. Accommodations include ASL interpretation, touch tour before the performance, sensory/quiet area, family bathroom and more provided by experts in the field of special needs.
