'Sound of Music' comes to Jakarta via Pelita Harapan

Geoff Marriott, Contributor, Jakarta

Sekolah Pelita Harapan, one of Jakarta's premier private schools, will present the timeless Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, The Sound of Music, at Teater Tanah Airku, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah on Thursday, Nov. 24 through Saturday Nov. 26.

Auditions for the show commenced in March, with many students competing for the coveted main parts. The roles of Maria and Captain von Trapp were keenly sought after and were awarded to Sanjana Mahtani (grade 10), Kendal Metcalfe (9), Brandon Wirakesuma (11), and Ziggy Looho (12).

The cast has been rehearsing weekly for approximately eight months -- currently, every day -- leading up to next week's performance, under the superb direction of Coral Cady. She has worked closely with Eric Bird (stage manager), Therese Wirakesuma (musical director) and Donna Marriott (event coordinator).

The cast will be supported by a wonderful 36-piece orchestra conducted by Therese Wirakesuma.

Sets and lighting will bring this classic story to life. The school has flown in three of Australia's best audio and lighting designers to help produce the show. Costumes have been fitted and the show is now coming to life.

The show promises to be a tour de force of musical theater, one not to be missed. The crew, cast and orchestra are all excited about the upcoming performance.

Kendal Metcalfe, due to play Maria, has been moved by all the preparations thus far: "Being a part of (the production) has been one of my most thrilling school experiences. Not only have I gained higher-quality friendships and valuable school memories that I will treasure the rest of my life; it has ultimately boosted my confidence and self-esteem."

Brandon Wirakesuma, who will play Captain von Trapp, has also learned a valuable lesson from his participation in the production: "Initially, I felt uncomfortable ... because it was hard to draw any parallels between my life as an adolescent student and that of a stern nationalist during the Second World War.

"As rehearsals progressed, the continuous encouragement and support of my peers and teachers strengthened my confidence in portraying the Captain. I can now see beyond the loyal soldier and understand the character of a man who values integrity and love of family and country."

(The author is head of performing arts, Sekolah Pelita Harapan, Karawaci, Banten province)