Chongqing - From March 15th to 20th, the original Broadway musical The Sound of Music had been staged in Chongqing Shi Guangnan Grand Theater. After ten years, this classic work returned to Chongqing's "Climb Every Mountain" to convey the warm power of music to the audience. During the tour, the lead actors accepted an exclusive interview with an iChongqing reporter, sharing their insights on the show, the exciting and eye-opening experience of performing in Chongqing, and their infinite love for art.

The Sound of Music story is set in Salzburg, Austria, in 1938. The young and lively Sister Maria Rainer becomes the governess of the von Trapp family's seven rebellious children. Since the death of Captain von Trapp's wife, he has run his family like an army. Maria's arrival changes the family: she teaches the children to play and sing, and with her playful teaching, she wins the children's love. With her music, she melts the Captain's icy cold heart. In 165 minutes, a live orchestra, 26 classic songs, 30 actors, and heartwarming stories provide the audience with once again the story that has brought back countless fond memories.

"The Sound of Music is a timeless classic that is a lively and entertaining story about a deep love of music, faith, and family," said Lauren Kidwell, who plays Mother Abbess in the musical.

Natalie Duncan, who plays Maria Rainer, used "nostalgia" to describe her strongest feelings about the musical. "I loved this show; I watched the movie a lot as a kid. So, to hear that that's something that we share in common with the Chinese people has been so amazing. Because I think there are a lot of differences between the US and China, we share this love of this art form."

During the Chongqing tour, the actors were amazed by the view and energy of this city. Natalie expressed that Chongqing is a fascinating place with many cool things to see and experience, and she was overwhelmed by it all.

Corey Greenan, who plays Captain von Trapp, told the reporter that after coming to China, he found that many people here were deeply infected by "The Sound of Music" and that the Chinese audience practiced their English and learned how to sing English songs through the show. "It's been eye-opening and amazing!" he said.

"The city is incredible, much like San Francisco in the US, with its cliff feel and bridges, and it was like being back in her hometown. "It reminds us of San Francisco in the United States. They're all built off the side of cliffs and have many bridges. So, in a small way, it feels like a piece of home," Lauren added.

The international award-winning "The Sound of Music" has opened the door to music for countless people, and the classic songs in the show have become common childhood memories for generations. Although there are many cultural differences between the US and China, the love of art is the same. As Lauren said at the end of the interview, classic repertoire can resonate with audiences in both countries: "I think one of the greatest themes about this show is that when we work together, we can climb mountains and stand up for what we believe in."

 (Dong Hanying and Li Tao, as interns, also contributed to this report)