Special to Iredell Free News

The streets of Statesville are alive with The Sound of Music! Rehearsals are well underway as Center Stage Alliance prepares for this beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein classic to open March 16 at Mac Gray Auditorium in Statesville.

The Sound of Music will feature a stellar cast of adults and children from Statesville and surrounding areas. Also joining the cast is professional actor Mike McColl, who was raised in North Carolina, but moved to L.A. in 1996 to study acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and has worked on-screen, stage and microphone ever since.

“We are elated to have Mike in The Sound of Music,” said Center Stage Alliance President Mykel Myers. “He and his wife Gwyn have been a trusted and valuable resource for our company since its inception, and will continue to mentor in every aspect of the organization. They will also be an instrumental part of our educational team, leading in the classroom and onstage.”

McColl stars alongside Ashley Gardner, who plays Maria Rainer, Tennille Sherrill as Mother Abbess, and many others.

This Center Stage Alliance production is under the direction of Josh Myers, music director Lisa Matthews, and choreographer Jatana Stevenson.

“This local talent blows my mind nightly at rehearsals. There are plenty of times where you’d be hard pressed to pick out the pro from the first timers — they have all risen to the occasion and show up prepared and ready to work,” said Josh Myers. “I’ve experienced goosebumps many times, tears a few times and goofy, awestruck smiles more times than I can count. I fall in love with this cast anew at each rehearsal. We look forward to introducing these talented cast members, and more, as the show’s opening approaches. Be sure to look for your friends and neighbors!”

Shows are at 7:30pm on March 16, 17, 18, 23, 24 and 25, and at 3:30 pm on March 19.

Ticket Info

Tickets are available in advance online for $16, or at the door for $20. To purchase tickets online, visit www.centerstagealliance.org.

Sponsors

The Sound of Music would not be possible without the support of show sponsors Griffin Insurance, Simply Southern Smiles, Iredell Health System, Sir Speedy, the Iredell Arts Council, the North Carolina Arts Council, The United Way of Iredell County, and many others.

About Center Stage Alliance

Center Stage Alliance, a newly formed 501(c)(3) community theatre group focused on youth education and community theatre, has a mission to create and unite through the arts. Center Stage Alliance aims to bring youth and the arts together, expanding knowledge in each area and creating quality group performances, projects, and shows for the community. Students receive professional training in the arts and learn to focus on individual growth while simultaneously working, united, toward a greater cause. Learn more at centerstagealliance.org.