The cast huddled backstage, hands in, voices rising together: “All that is good and important in the world…” and then, in unison, “TAKES WORK!” This powerful pre-show ritual is a Marvelwood mantra – a reminder that the magic on stage is built through shared effort, trust, and dedication. It sets the tone for an experience that begins long before the curtain rises.
This year’s production of The Sound of Music was a true tapestry of generations. Head of School Blythe Everett P’14, ‘16, Assistant Head Heather Hunt P’25, and longtime faculty member Wendi Love P’27 brought the three nuns to life, forming a delightful trio that balanced gentle sternness with warmth and humor. Their presence alongside the students, including Wendi’s fourth-grade daughter, Caroline, made the show especially meaningful. And alumnus-turned-faculty member Alex Sanchez ’19 once again stepped into the cast, continuing a tradition of contributing to every production he can.
But perhaps the most touching example of Marvelwood’s family spirit came from long-time directors Misty Jordan P’29 and Dennis White P’29, who celebrated their 39th production together in the PAC! Their daughters, nine-year-old Everleigh and Marvelwood freshman Isla, joined the cast, creating a special full-circle moment that beautifully wove together family, faculty, and friends into one cohesive show.
The Love and Jordan-White clans weren’t the only families sharing the spotlight! Director of Admission Steve Malinowski P’21, ‘26, who returned to the stage after three decades to play Baron Elberfeld, shared the spotlight with his daughter, Genevieve ’26, who shone as Maria in her final Marvelwood musical. Steve shared that stepping into his first rehearsal instantly rekindled the thrill of performing, but experiencing it side by side with his daughter made this production truly unforgettable.
A beloved tradition initiated by Misty in 2006 is the gifting of a keepsake apple to every cast and crew member on opening night, a gesture that connects generations of castmates and now fuels a playful rivalry between Alex and Isla – who both grew up on the Marvelwood stage – over who can collect the most (currently with 11 each, they’re chasing the record of another Marvelwood family connection, Maggie Everett ‘16, who has 12!).
The final bows brought waves of laughter, applause, and a collective pride that echoed throughout the PAC. From opening night to special performances for 200 visiting students from local elementary schools, the entire run buzzed with joy and when the lights finally dimmed and the last notes faded, what lingered wasn’t just the music; it was the unmistakable feeling of a community seeing itself reflected onstage – a community where families grow up in the wings, faculty and students learn from each other in equal measure. The work of creating something beautiful becomes its own shared legacy.
