The Sound of Music (Leicester Curve)

Leicester's hills are alive with The Sound of Music this Christmas as Paul Kerryson's final show opens at the Curve. Having had previous classic musicals as their festive show, this year delivers another finely tuned masterpiece.

Curve favourite Laura Pitt-Pulford delivers a charming and warm Maria. Her charisma shines and, whilst not the most 'traditional' of Maria's, her touching scenes with the Von Trapp children and the Captain (Michael French) are some of the most emotive scenes.

The Von Trapp children, headed up by fine voiced Emma Harrold as Liesel, are a delight to watch. Their timing, coupled with Drew McOnie's choreography, give the energy and uplift this musical family so deservedly require.

Al Parkinson's set design is some of the most inventive and creative the Curve have had in recent years. His use of space and the transformation from the Austrian hills to the lavish Von Trapp house are seamless and inspiring; a creative imagination has flourished.

The Sound of Music isn't the most obvious choice for a festive production; the political slant of Act Two somewhat dampens the Christmas spirit leaving the Von Trapp's fighting for their freedom.

Once again, the Curve has delivered a fine piece of musical theatre that is fit for the West End stage. Let's hope there is more life in The Sound of Music after if finishes its run in Leicester as Paul Kerryson leaves his Artistic Director's chair with his head held high.