Candlewick Productions is once again showcasing the local talent of the Pembina Valley, this time with a heartwarming rendition of the beloved musical The Sound of Music. Set to take the stage at the Kenmor Theatre June 6–7, the show promises to bring joy, nostalgia, and toe-tapping tunes to families across the region.
Young stars shine in iconic roles
Among the many talented cast members are Abby Loutchan, who plays the sweet and shy Gretl von Trapp, and Zoe Reimer, who juggles three distinct roles: Sister Bertha, housekeeper Frau Schmidt, and ensemble.
“This is my third musical,” shared Abby with a smile. “I’ve been in Annie and The Little Mermaid. In that one, I was Ursula’s tentacle!”
This time around, she’s stepped into the spotlight in a bigger way. “I’m the youngest von Trapp child,” Abby explained. “I get to sing in the ‘So Long, Farewell’ song at the party. That’s my favourite part!”
Despite being one of the youngest in the cast, Abby says nerves aren’t an issue. “I’m not very nervous, no. I just love being on stage.”
A timeless story with a fresh local twist
Set against the backdrop of Austria during WWII, The Sound of Music follows Maria, a spirited would-be nun who becomes a governess to seven children and unexpectedly finds love.
“Maria leaves the abbey to care for the von Trapp children,” Zoe explained. “Then she realizes she has feelings for their father, Captain von Trapp. She gets scared and returns to the convent, but Mother Abbess reminds her that love between a man and woman is holy too.”
Zoe added that stepping into characters from a different era takes a bit of adjustment. “The characters are definitely not modern, so I had to step out of my comfort zone to really connect with the role.”
Rehearsals filled with fun, learning, and lots of dancing
The production is led by Candlewick's Richard and Vanessa Klassen, who are known for mentoring young performers and encouraging excellence on stage.
“They make it really fun,” Abby said. “You learn a lot because they’ve done this for years.”
Zoe agreed. “Richard has this hilarious old man impression he does. He’s helped us channel the vintage vibe of the musical while keeping rehearsals light-hearted.”
The show also incorporates plenty of movement. “There’s definitely dancing,” said Zoe. “There’s some ballroom-style choreography, and it really adds to the magic of the show.”
Local talent, big stage presence
For those familiar with the 1965 Julie Andrews film, this stage adaptation will feel both familiar and fresh.
“Not everything runs exactly like the movie,” Zoe shared. “But it still tells the same story and captures all those iconic musical moments.”
Abby echoed the excitement, adding that the whole cast has worked hard to bring the show to life. “We’ve been practicing for weeks, and I think people are going to love it.”
Showtimes, tickets & more
Public performances of The Sound of Music ran yesterday at 7:00 PM and again today, June 7 at 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM at the Kenmor Theatre in Morden.
Tickets are available in advance at $15 for adults and $10 for youth (17 and under). At the door, tickets are $18 for adults and $13 for youth. To book, visit www.candlewick.ca, email tickets@candlewick.ca, or call 204-822-SHOW (7469).
Final notes
Whether you're revisiting the magic of The Sound of Music or discovering it for the first time, Candlewick’s community-driven production offers something for everyone—family-friendly entertainment, timeless music, and the chance to support young local performers.
“I just hope people come and enjoy it,” said Zoe. “We’ve all worked really hard—and it’s a classic for a reason!”