CMU School of Drama


Tuesday, January 29, 2013

'Sound of Music' actress says Maria character a complicated one

TribLIVE: How do you solve a problem like creating a character for Maria?

If you‘re Lara Hayhurst, you just follow the lyrics Oscar Hammerstein II penned for “The Sound of Music.”

Maria is a complex character with often-conflicting personality traits, explains Hayhurst, who will play her in the Pittsburgh Musical Theater production of the musical that will play Thursday through Feb. 3 at the Byham Theater, Downtown.

5 comments:

Emma Present said...

The "Sound of Music" is a show that my generation has grown up with. I saw it in theaters for the first time when I was about five, and the film version starring Julie Andrews was a favorite of mine throughout my childhood. So it definitely seems like a daunting task to play Maria, who is not only complicated in her own right as a character to portray, but has such a history that actors must contend with since all audiences come in to the show with certain expectations of what they are going to see. I admire this actress's open attitude toward this role and the humbleness with which she approaches this character.

Jess Bergson said...

I agree with Emma when she says that Maria can be a complicated part to play simply because she has such a long and bright history in the theatre and film worlds. However, I really do not think she is a complicated character as a whole. Yes, there is conflict in her character, but there is conflict in almost every character in every play. I think it is admirable that this actress is honest about her feelings on her role, but if she did not worry so much about the history of Maria, perhaps she would realize Maria is simpler than she is making her out to be.

johnm said...

Although hearing the names "Rodgers and Hammerstein" brings to mind happy couples singing in fields together, the core of their musicals bring up much more radical themes than just the trials of love. The Sound of Music marks a families choice to revolt against the government they are governed by. They risk their lives to escape, never compromising their morals and values. Maria herself goes against the ruling power, in effect fighting against her own beliefs. Maria made sacrifices of her faith in order to serve an even higher cause of helping the family. Even the nuns lie in order to save the family from the Nazi's. The bible does not say "Lie within reason". It brings to mind the moral dilemma brought up in the JPS play Doubt. The head nun in doubt, says out loud what the sound of music only hints towards "When you take a step to address wrongdoing, you are taking a step away from God, but in his service."

Unknown said...

When people think of the Sound of Music, most leap to the movie with Julie Andrews. Unfortunately, this means that the Maria's in many stage productions of the musical attempt to copy Andrew's interpretation of the character. It's great to see an actress that is taking the development of such an iconic role so personally. In my opinion, Maria is not as complicated as the actress seems to think, but it is great that the effort is being made.

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