Welcome to The Sound of Music! This production is one for the Ignite history books, and I’m so honored that you’re here to witness it!
The Sound of Music is a musical known by all. Maybe not loved by all, because even I will admit that the 2h 52m film is excessive… and it gave me a lifelong fear of marionettes. But! The music, the story, and the message remain relevant to this very day.
If you know me, you know that I love The Sound of Music more than just about anything. When presented with the opportunity to direct, I begged for this to be the show we put on (shoutout to Brady for conceding). Because of the appreciation that I have for the story, which I know is shared by so many others, our goal for this production was to pay homage. To amalgamate the many adaptations of such a beautiful and meaningful classic into one tribute: a love letter to the power of music!
Directing this production has been a thrilling, albeit challenging roller coaster. Through the inevitable ups and downs, I’ve found myself telling the kids one thing consistently: be intentional. Be intentional with everything from your character nuances to your time management. All the while, those have also been the words I’ve repeated to myself. This simultaneously has been the most difficult thing I’ve ever done and the absolute greatest experience of my life, because I couldn’t be finishing my senior year in a more intentional way. It’s been like watching my favorite movie for the first time again. Immersing myself in everything from the small details and beautiful colors, to the history of the real Von Trapp family. There are really no words to describe the impact that this has had and will have on me for the rest of my life. I feel like I’ve truly found my calling, and I am eternally grateful for every intentional and magical second.
There are too many people to thank, but to name a few:
- The creative team for proving that student artists are capable of SO MUCH!
- Lillie, Sophia, and Amora for so skillfully bringing this vision to life
- Brady Joy for his patience and friendship
- My parents and sister for their support as I’ve navigated these past months
- Isabelle Zurcher not only for her artistic advice, but for being the person I could lean on throughout this entire process
- My mentor Libby Pedersen for trusting me with this show– every day you inspire me with your generosity and resilience
- Finally, thank you to my incredible kids. I find myself a better person because of you. I’m going to miss your smiles, your voices, and your annoying von-snapping so much. I am one proud grandpa.
Thank YOU for supporting youth-created art… and for reading this essay of a director's note. I hope that you enjoy your short, puppet-free time in the hills– I know I have :)
-Delaney Murphy
