By Doug Hughes, Director of Marketing

One of the joys of community theatre is discovering new talent, and South Bay Musical Theatre’s current production of The Sound of Music demonstrates that in abundance. Of the 40 cast members bringing this beloved story to life, an impressive 30 are making their SBMT debut. That includes our Captain von Trapp, played by Brad Satterwhite, who has graced stages all over the Bay Area and recently wrapped up a powerful run in A Few Good Men at Woodminster.

Fresh facesAll 13 of the young actors who play the von Trapp children (across two alternating casts) are new to our stage as well. Their energy has been a highlight in rehearsals, and audiences are already responding warmly to the glimpses we’ve shared on social media. We’re also delighted to welcome veteran performer Josie Burgin Lawson as Frau Schmidt. 

Seeing so many newcomers alongside familiar faces is a reminder of how vibrant community theatre can be. Performers from across the Bay Area are finding their way to SBMT, enriching our stage with fresh perspectives and diverse experiences. At the same time, longtime cast members (such as Kama Belloni as Mother Abbess) continue to provide the welcoming spirit and sense of tradition that make SBMT feel like home.

That balance of fresh energy and familiar friends is what makes The Sound of Music such a special production. It captures the best of what community theatre has to offer: discovery, collaboration, and connection.

Sales are heating; seating is fleeting

Reminder: The Sound of Music opens this week—on September 27—and runs for just 11 performances through October 18. Tickets are already getting scarce, especially for our five afternoon matinees (94% sold out as of this writing). For the best availability, try one of our three Friday evening shows or our single Thursday performance on October 16—currently “only” 47% sold, but even those are disappearing faster than any show we’ve produced since the pandemic pause. My best advice? Reserve your seats today—and consider subscribing to our three-show season that includes Little Women and In The Heights, and you’ll save up to 25% over the individual show prices. See you at the theater!