Director & Cast - a short presentation of the stars of The Sound of Music

“The Sound of Music” owes its outstanding film success to its creators who worked in front as well as behind the cameras. The American director and producer Robert Wise had already successfully filmed the musical “West Side Story;” thereafter followed productions such as “Star Trek” and “The Day the Earth Stood Still.” The foregoing notwithstanding, his by far greatest success remains his production work for “The Sound of Music.”  In 2005, Robert Wise died in Los Angeles.

Richard Rodgers is responsible for the music of the film. The composer had already celebrated early successes at Broadway. In 1943 he, together with Oscar Hammerstein, began to produce musical productions, such as “Carousel” and “South Pacific.” For “The Sound of Music” he composed titles like “Climb Every Mountain” and “My Favorite Things", all of which would become the most famous of his career.

In the role of Maria, Julie Andrews offered a brilliant performance. A mere 21 years of age, Julie Andrews had already convinced Broadway audiences of her talents as Eliza Doolittle in “My fair Lady.” “The Sound of Music” launched an unparalleled career for the actress, singer and author who today lives in Los Angeles. For her role as Maria, Julie Andrews received the Golden Globe in recognition of her work as leading lady.

The Canadian actor Christopher Plummer stood as Baron von Trapp in front of the camera for only the second time in his career. More than 80 films would follow, among them “Alexander” or “National Treasure.” He was unable to tie in to his success in “The Sound of Music.”

Eleanor Parker can be experienced in “The Sound of Music” as the Baroness Schroeder who in the long run – after fiercely dueling with Maria for the Baron’s affection – must concede defeat to Maria’s charm. The actress would convince audiences in numerous further roles of her talent, and she was honored with a star on Hollywood’s “Walk of Fame.”

Audiences came to know Anna Lee as Sister Margareta. The experienced actress had already stood in front of the camera with Bette Davis and John Wayne, and up until her death in 2004 she entertained viewers in the television series “General Hospital.”

Liesl - Baron von Trapp’s 16 year old daughter who initially eyed Maria quite skeptically – was embodied by Charmian Carr. It remained her one and only movie role.

Further supporting roles were played by Peggy Wood, Ben Wright and Richard Haydn.