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Real Von Trapp Family: 10 Kids, Stern Maria!
30 Mar
Summary
- The real Maria von Trapp was firm, while the captain was warmer.
- The von Trapp family actually had ten children, not seven.
- The von Trapp family first settled in Philadelphia before Vermont.
The enduring tale of "The Sound of Music," which captivated audiences for nearly seven decades, continues to resonate as it returns to Philadelphia's Academy of Music. This iconic love story, inspired by the von Trapp family's experiences, reveals fascinating differences from its cinematic depiction.
Kristina von Trapp, granddaughter of Captain Georg and Maria von Trapp, shared that the real Maria was quite firm and stern, essential for holding the large family together. Conversely, Captain von Trapp was depicted as warmer and kinder than in the film. A significant revelation is that the von Trapp family actually had ten children; seven from the Captain's first marriage, and three born to him and Maria.
Many may not realize that the von Trapp family's journey led them to settle in Philadelphia first, where Kristina's father, Johannes, was born on January 17, 1939. They later found a hillside in Vermont reminiscent of Austria, establishing the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort in 1942. The current touring production, featuring Cayleigh Capaldi as Maria, brings this timeless story of hope, love, and courage to audiences.
