Lisa Jarisch calls “The Sound of Music” “sheer joy” in her review for Berkshire On Stage
“This is a production without a flaw. From the leading roles, to the briefest appearance of party guests and soldiers, not a foot or a note goes wrong.”
“The entire cast has clearly embraced the essence, the spirit and the meaning of this classic musical, and they put their heart and soul and not inconsiderable talents into every moment.”
“Naughton delivers each number, each note, each lyric, with absolute confidence, and it is clear that her debut at the Mac in this role surely is one of her favorite things. She radiates joy, confidence, poise, and assurance every moment on the stage.”
“If the performances of these young thespians who Saunders has collected are a portent of any kind, the future of live theatre is in most excellent hands and feet and voice with this next generation of up and coming performers.”
““Climb Ev’ry Mountain” is the soaring climax to Act 1, and is gloriously performed by Alex Haines as Mother Abbess. She enthralled the audience with her stunning delivery of this classic signature piece”
“With standard Mac-Haydn style and aplomb, the technical quality of the production is as noteworthy as the performances of the cast.”
J. Peter Bergman praises the direction and vision of “The Sound of Music” in his review for Berkshire Bright Focus
“the show itself is wonderful, due in part to the Maria of Sarah Naughton who is terrific. Credit goes to an excellent cast and a marvelous director, John Saunders.”
“Emily Allen, Judith Wyatt and Amber Mawande-Spytek are an excellent trio and with the Mother Abbess, played by the superb Alexandra Haines they leave a stunning impression of theatrical professionalism.When Haines sings “Climb Ev’ry Mountain at the end of Act One it is a definitive showstopping moment leaving the promise of grand things to come.”
“Director John Saunders has melded all of these characters (and more) seamlessly and the show profits from his vision and his control.”
Trixie Starr praises the cast of “The Sound of Music” in her review for Trixie’s List
“Sarah Naughton is a perfect Maria”
“Alexandra Haines, who plays The Mother Abbess, brings the house down with “Climb Every Mountain” – an immaculate performance”
“The Von Trapp children are AMAZING! They know every line, they do not miss a beat, and they are as young as eight-years old”
Jeffrey Borak calls out Alex Haines’ Mother Abbess in his review for The Berkshire Eagle
“In a performance that is noteworthy throughout her time onstage for its truthfulness and emotional authenticity, Haines delivers “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” not as a showpiece but, rather, with the grace, wisdom and nurturing spirit that shapes the drama of the sequence. In that moment, those hills around the Mac-Haydn certainly do come alive.”