Tryon Little Theater presented The Sound of Music this past weekend to almost sold-out audiences. If you havent already seen it, you have another three opportunities this coming weekend.

Below are excerpts from a letter sent to the cast by Elisabeth von Trapp, a descendant of the family portrayed in the musical:

To the dear Sound Of Music cast, orchestra and stage hands:

I am the granddaughter of Maria von Trapp and the daughter of Werner von Trapp, who was depicted as Kurt in The Sound Of Music.

The first time I ever learned a SOM song, I was sitting under the poplar tree in front of the family home in Stowe. The woman who taught my brothers, my sister and me to sing was Mary Martin, the first actress to play the part of Maria for the premier show on Broadway.

For tonight and for your upcoming shows, I send all of you best wishes for successful, inspirational and heartfelt experiences as you present the story of my relatives, the Trapp Family Singers.

I know how much work goes into putting on this show. This is truly a labor of love. The essence of this musical is of hope, courage and finding ones purpose in life.

May you act your part brilliantly and may you delight your audiences with Rodger and Hammersteins melodious music. And may your performances bring you moments of joy, wonder and awe.

But most of all, I wish you much love in the work you are doing, presenting the arts to your community. May your Sound of Music production help inspire your community and bring hope to those who see your shows.

Let the hills come alive with your sound of music.

Wishing you all the best

Elisabeth von Trapp

The Sound of Music plays at the Tryon Fine Arts Center, February 26 and 27 at 8 p.m. and February 28 at 3 p.m. Tickets are available at the TLT workshop box office at 516 S.Trade St. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Drop by the workshop or call 828-859-2466 to reserve your seats. The box office is also open in the TFAC lobby one hour before each performance.