By JACKIE MOE

For generations, The Sound of Music has captivated audiences with its memorable songs, inspiring story and enduring message of hope.

Now, the beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein classic returns to Segerstrom Center for the Arts June 2-14 in a new North American tour directed by Jack O’Brien.

Among the acclaimed cast is Tony Award nominee Christiane Noll, who brings her own interpretation to the role of Mother Abbess. Noll, whose Broadway credits include Ragtime, Dear Evan Hansen, Chaplin and Elf, spoke with Jacke Moe about finding fresh layers in an iconic character, the power of “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” and why this timeless story continues to resonate.

Nearly everyone knows The Sound of Music. Does that make stepping into this production more exciting, more intimidating, or a little of both?

Noll: When we began rehearsals back in August of 2025, I’d say the task was daunting. Excited and scared, to quote Mr. Sondheim. But all these months later, I think we’ve learned that this is an extraordinary piece of theater. Yes, most people are at the very least familiar with the music, but that means we are safe and familiar. Audiences have been overwhelmingly responsive and enthusiastic. It feels like we all need the hope and love that this piece provides now more than ever.

Why do you think this production’s themes still connect with people today?

Noll: Even in the darkest of times, people can find each other and heal each other through music and hope and love and purpose. When would that not be something to connect to?

Audiences often think of The Sound of Music as a feel-good musical, but it also deals with courage, family and standing up for your beliefs. Has your perspective on the story changed as an adult performer?

I suppose so. I think many forget this is Austria in the 1930s. We have the benefit of hindsight and knowing what happened, but it is fascinating to embody characters that don’t know. We sense dramatic change is coming but don’t know where it will lead. I think that is one of the reasons the hope in this piece is so resonant. We, the audience, know what these characters will have to endure, and they find the inspiration to do it anyway.

Director Jack O’Brien has talked about bringing a contemporary lens to this classic. What feels fresh or different about this production?

Noll: Jack really had us go back to the text and encouraged us to discover these characters off the page, not as remnants of performances we may have seen in the movie. I appreciated that. My Mother Abbess is quite different from what is usually expected, and I was encouraged to find my own way through this extraordinary woman’s journey. I’m grateful. He did that for every single member of this phenomenal cast.

Which musical number still gives you chills, even after rehearsing and performing it countless times?

Noll: “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” was a beast to learn. Terrifying. But now I’m able to really experience it. I find new things in it all the time. I’d say I’m enjoying myself.

What’s the biggest challenge in portraying this character authentically while still making the role your own?

Noll: The challenge I look forward to meeting every performance is introducing this very complicated, messy human being to each audience. I think once they see her humor and her humanity, they forget any preconceived expectations they may have had and just enjoy the journey.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about touring with a production of this scale?

Noll: We travel with more than 50 people, including chaperones and parents for the children. The kids do all the performances and go to school every day. They work harder than anyone else in this show. They are amazing!

The title song asks us to think about “the hills being alive.” Where do you go when you need to recharge and find your own version of that peace?

Noll: Home! I have been flying back home every two weeks for a day. So necessary.

If you could sit down for coffee with any member of the original Broadway cast or film cast, who would it be and why?

Noll: Well, I’ve worked with Julie Andrews, so I’d love to sit down with her and have a proper catch-up!

What’s one lesson from this show that you hope audiences take home with them after the final curtain?

Noll: Climb every mountain till you find your dream.

The Sound of Music has introduced generations to live theater. If someone is seeing the show for the very first time in Costa Mesa, what do you hope they experience?

Noll: I hope The Sound of Music is a launching pad for a lifetime of love, appreciation and enjoyment of live theater. There is nothing like it anywhere else. Sitting with thousands of people watching lightning strike, and everyone experiences it together. I love how many kids are in the audiences, and I hope they grow up and get to share the experience with their own children or grandchildren. That’s what I love to see.

The Sound of Music
Where: Segerstrom Hall, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa
When: June 2-14, 2026
Tickets: Starting at $39
Website: SCFTA.org

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