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Central Florida Vocal Arts and Space Coast Symphony Orchestra are elated to announce their first live performance together since 2019 as they collaboratively present the musical theater classic, Rodgers & Hammerstein’sThe Sound of Music. Performances will take place August 13th and 14th in the Alexis and Jim Pugh Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, followed by a touring weekend in Melbourne and Vero Beach, August 20th and 21st respectively. Though the show is a classic, this production offers a fresh take, examining the relevant themes presented in the work, especially as they relate to the invasion of Ukraine.
With a mission to use the performing arts to create a stronger community, Central Florida Vocal Arts choseThe Sound of Music not only for its lush vocal and instrumental lines, which highlight the depth of musical talent for which the company is known, but also for the opportunity for community discussion. As we see the brave Austrian people defy the Nazis of World War II on stage, we cannot ignore the parallels between these characters and the real people of Ukraine, as they struggle today against Russian invasion. This production challenges the audience to examine the role we each play as individuals in standing against injustice wherever it exists, while also offering a message of hope.
This production aims to begin a dialogue, while also making a tangible difference. Leading up to the opening ofThe Sound of Music, Central Florida Vocal Arts will also present a free lecture recital at the new Winter Park Library on Thursday, August 4th at 7:00 PM. Musical excerpts will be accompanied by expert speakers from other community partner organizations, who will share their expert perspective on the crisis in Ukraine. A portion of all ticket sales will also be donated to charitable organizations, providing aid in Ukraine including Artists United for Peace in collaboration with FusionFest.
Our elite production team led by director Brandy Eleazar, will pay homage to this beloved work, while bringing clarity to its relevance today. They will be leading an all star cast including Laura Whittenberger as Maria, Sean Powell as Captain von Trapp, Theresa Smith-Levin as Mother Abbess and many more local favorites. Singing under the baton of Space Coast Symphony’s founder and conductor Aaron Collins, this production with full live orchestra on stage is not to be missed!
