The von Trapps' performance was part of the auditorium's Civic Concert Series.

During that era, what is now known as Gardiner Spring Auditorium was part of area's post-vaudeville scene. It played host to numerous big-name performers, including Paul Robeson and Bob Hope.

At that time, Los Angeles was the only other place to go, but even then it would take four to five hours to get there because there were no freeways, said David Billman, who co-directs the production with Dave Masterson.

And so, because of its location and the venue, acts would come to Ontario, added Masterson.

As the years have gone by, less and less is known about the von Trapps' appearance. All that remains is an original program, Masterson said, adding that if audiences pay close attention, that program will appear in the performance.

For John Lewis, who is the production's musical director as well as the lovable butler Franz, being a part of performance is an honor.

"It's humbling to me that we can be a part of this because of the history of the production and (von Trapp) connection," he said.

The motion picture version starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer remains one of the most popular movie musicals because of the songs.

It boasts memorable classics such as "Do-Re-Mi," "Sixteen Going on 17" and "My Favorite Things," Masterson said.

"The music is what sells the whole thing," he said.

Authenticity is key to Masterson, and he spared no expense to achieve it.

He spent $25,000 alone on costumes, which ranged from exact replicas of German officer uniforms to 40 nun habits. He said the entire production comes out to $60,000. Masterson and Billman both financed the show.

The quest for detail didn't stop there. Masterson was even able to get a actual nun to portray one of the Sisters of Nonnberg.

Sister Niamh Kelly, who teaches at St. Joseph's in Upland, grew up with a musical background. The Ireland native said her father used to play the piano all the time, and her sister was an opera singer.

"When I saw the `Sound of Music' it reminded me of my younger days," she said.

And like Maria, the main character, Kelly said she also contemplated whether she belonged in a religious order.

Masterson said that attention to detail is what makes the production stand out from the rest.

"The experience the students gain is a lifelong experience that these kids will take forever," he said.

FYI

WHEN: Tonight and Saturday, 7 p.m. and Sunday, 2 p.m.

Performances will resume next week May 13, 14, 15 at 7 p.m., closing matinee performance on May 16 at 2 p.m.

A special home family evening performance will be available at 7 p.m. on Monday with all seats discounted to $7.

Tickets are $10 and $12, all seats are "first come-first serve" and are available by calling 909-988-5560, ext. 2314 or by purchasing online at www.chsthespians.com.