Great dinner at Byrd & Baldwin before the show. Chrysler venue: unfortunate setup of restrooms (men one side; women other) with the lobby not being big enough. No middle aisle so lots of stepping over people. But good sight lines, acoustics and leg room. Show: fantastic. Maria was a talented singer and Mother Abbess was exceptional. Set, lighting, sound and stage movement great. Orchestra was great and the cast meshed well with the musicians. The cast matched my vision after watching the movie so many times. The kids were great. They could have left out the 2 new songs to shorten it. The love between the 16/17 yea- olds was not developed. The end of the singing contest and the final scene were awkward but I can't put my finger on why. I was emotionally moved during the performance and I enthusiastically stood with others for the final ovation.

Maria, played by Cayleigh, was magnificent. Julie Andrews would be so proud. The whole cast was wonderful. A night to remember!💕💕💕

The show was really good. I let out an audible “woah” when the Nazi banners fell as the back drop to the family’s performance prior to escaping the Nazi’s. I felt the moment for what it was. I am Autistic and have ADHD (AuDHD). I began wiggling & really needed a Sensory Break. I do wish shows had more Intermissions for those who can’t maintain focus & attention for such long periods of time.

Great Show one of the best I have seen. But it only play half the story.

What an incredible show! We cried multiple times at the tenderness and power of the story. Such beautiful voices from Maria and Liesl! Love the dance scene with Liesl and Rolf and the variety of emotion shown by these two. Loved the kids and each were so powerful in their role! Mother Abbess brought the tears with her earnest and fierce love and radiance. The sets were stunning. I loved the gravity and the joy of the show!! One of the best written musical plays of all time!! The theatre of Utica is gorgeous and always shocking in its nostalgic feel. Maria held the show with her first song giving us confidence we were in the hands of an artist. Incredible all the way around and so needed during these times. We need hope, courage, love for family, for goodness— Love must prevail and this musical reminds us we must climb every mountain to bring this message home.

These young actors did a fabulous job. We enjoyed every minute of this play. I loved everyone of the actors but I have to point out Briana Wilder put chills on my arms. Unbelievable voice. We will definitely be back to see more plays at Rise Above.