**’Sound of Music’ Stars Share Unforgettable Moments Behind the Scenes 60 Years On**
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As The Sound of Music reaches its 60th anniversary, the iconic child stars from the film reminisce about their cherished experiences in a recent exclusive interview. The timeless classic has touched the hearts of audiences for decades, but for the young actors who portrayed the von Trapp children, the filming process left them with unforgettable memories. PEOPLE had the privilege of speaking with Kym Karath (Gretl), Debbie Turner (Marta), Angela Cartwright (Brigitta), Duane Chase (Kurt), and Nicholas Hammond (Friedrich) as they recounted some of the most significant moments that have stayed with them over the years.
Karath, who joined the set at just 7 years old, was enchanted by the lavish wardrobe department at the 20th Century Fox studio lot in Los Angeles. The experience of having custom-made clothes and witnessing the intricate design process left a lasting impression on her. Hammond, at the age of 14, found the initial stage rehearsals in L.A. isolated and sterile. However, everything changed when they moved to Salzburg, Austria, where the picturesque Alps served as a breathtaking backdrop for filming.
The cast’s meticulous preparation for the musical sequences paid off during the filming in Austria. Cartwright, already a seasoned actress at 13, fondly remembers performing at an open-air theater with Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer in front of a live audience. Turner, at 8 years old during filming, recalls the joy of singing with Andrews and the excitement of trying European cuisine for the first time. Visiting Salzburg later in life brought back a flood of nostalgic memories for Turner, underscoring the timeless beauty of the city.
Chase, who landed the role of Kurt at 13, vividly remembers the moment director Robert Wise informed him of his selection without a screen test. His enduring friendship with Plummer is commemorated by a cherished photograph from the set. The bond shared with fellow cast members, Carr, and Menzies, both now deceased, remains close to the hearts of the surviving actors. Despite their age differences, the young actors formed strong connections and spent time together on and off the set.
Reflecting on their time in Austria, the cast members recall occasional mischief and pranks played out of boredom during the extended filming period. These innocent antics added a light-hearted touch to their shared experiences. The premiere of the movie at the Fox Theater in Los Angeles marked a grand finale to their journey, as they arrived in their party clothes from the film, creating a magical and unforgettable moment.
The nostalgia and fond memories shared by the cast members of The Sound of Music highlight the enduring impact the film had on their lives. As the beloved classic is now available worldwide in 4K Ultra HD Digital & Blu-ray disc, fans can revisit the enchanting world of the von Trapp family and relive the magic that captured hearts around the globe. The behind-the-scenes anecdotes and personal reflections from the child stars serve as a testament to the everlasting legacy of this cinematic masterpiece.