Low-cut tank tops, cut-off denim shorts, and a constant battle against humidity for those with voluminous hair are all markers that summer is upon us. With temperatures peaking into the 100s, Austinites will do anything to stay fresh and keep sweat stains to a minimum. Despite the unbearable heat, the annual Zilker Summer Musical is one outdoor event that keeps thousands coming—and this summer—the hills are alive with The Sound of Music!
Who can forget growing up singing alongside the 1965 award-winning film adaptation of one of the great cornerstones of Broadway musicals? Who can forget singing wholeheartedly in the shower about raindrops on roses, and whiskers on kittens—among some of Maria’s other favorite things? Told through the lens of a spunky governess with a voice of an angel, The Sound of Music is a timeless tale that remains an audience favorite 53 years later.
Featured as the 54th Annual Zilker Summer Musical, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s audience favorite tells the story of a postulant, Maria, too high-spirited for a life as a nun in Salzburg, Austria, just before World War II. Sent to serve as the governess for a widowed naval captain’s seven children, Maria gradually wins the heart of the navy leader and the two happily marry. Upon returning from their honeymoon, the von Trapp family discovers that the Nazis have invaded Austria and have demanded the captain’s immediate service in their navy. With a narrow escape over the mountains to Switzerland, The Sound of Music features such memorable tunes as “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “The Sound of Music,” and the many others that continue to live in the hearts of audiences of all ages—plus it’s campy, fun and an excuse to sing along with friends, family and lovers on a summer night in Austin, Texas.
Thousands adore the Zilker Summer Musical, and its summer presentation of The Sound of Music is extraordinarily special. This year marks the shared anniversary of Zilker’s first summer musical in 1959 and the Broadway premiere of The Sound of Music 53 years ago! Not to mention, every performance is always free! Donations are encouraged to help support Zilker Theatre Productions, a nonprofit organization that provides award-winning, pay-what-you-wish entertainment at the convenience of weekly show times on the comfort of your very own picnic blanket all summer long.
The 54th Annual Zilker Summer Musical’s production of The Sound of Music is just one of many live performances happening in and around the city this summer. After all: live theater, Zilker Park, and The Sound of Music are all just a few of our favorite things.
Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theatre
The Sound of Music
July 6–August 11, Thursday–Sunday 8:30 p.m., free
