An innovative theater company based in Wilton Manors is reimagining the legendary musical, The Sound of Music, by offering an immersive outdoor experience. In this production, audiences seated in swivel chairs will follow the unfolding drama across various locations within Richardson Historic Park & Nature Preserve. Produced by Plays Of Wilton! (POW!), the concept originated from director and founder Ronnie Larson's realization that the park’s natural features resembled the iconic sets of the original show. This adaptation invites viewers to use their imagination, replacing the Austrian Alps with Florida scenery.

Inspired by the scenic elements of Richardson Historic Park, Ronnie Larson envisioned a unique approach to staging The Sound of Music. The park's structures—such as its gazebo, grand house, and lush greenery—mirrored key settings from the classic tale. To bring his vision to life, Larson introduced swivel chairs for the audience, enabling them to pivot effortlessly between scenes dispersed throughout the park. As he explained, "The idea came to me while standing here; I realized we were surrounded by all the necessary backdrops." His creative solution allows the narrative to flow seamlessly, engaging spectators more deeply than traditional seating arrangements.

Setting up this ambitious project required careful planning and some fortunate circumstances. A courtyard paved with bricks provided an ideal surface for the rolling swivel chairs, ensuring stability during performances. According to Larsen, this unexpected advantage felt almost serendipitous. Audiences can now enjoy dynamic views, such as Maria strolling through wooded paths or nuns harmonizing under open skies. Each rotation reveals another layer of the story, enhancing the overall theatrical impact.

Despite the absence of towering mountains, the production encourages participants to embrace their creativity. When glancing beyond the stage area, one might spot familiar local landmarks instead of distant peaks. For instance, at certain points, a nearby Dairy Queen becomes part of the backdrop. This whimsical touch adds charm to the performance, reminding everyone that imagination plays a vital role in appreciating art.

This groundbreaking interpretation of The Sound of Music runs until June 9, 2025, transforming Richardson Historic Park into a vibrant stage. Free tickets are available online via playsofwilton.com, though reservations are mandatory. By combining rich storytelling with interactive design, Plays Of Wilton! has crafted an unforgettable event celebrating both community spirit and artistic innovation.