A South Dade News Leader Review of The Sound of Music – May 29 & May 30th, 2025 Performances
By: Arturo De Jesus Morejon
Location: Cutler Bay, FL
CUTLER BAY, FL – A little slice of Austria came to life right here in South Florida last week, as Our Lady of the Holy Rosary – St. Richard Catholic School transported audiences into the heart of the Alps with their 2025 student production of The Sound of Music. Staged on May 29 and again on May 30th, the performances delivered more than just a musical — they offered a heartwarming, faith-filled journey of talent, discipline, and artistic brilliance.
Directed by the ever-passionate Ms. Sophia Reyes, Performing Arts Director and music educator, the production showcased the strength of a school where faith and creativity walk hand-in-hand. The beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein classic found new life in the voices and hearts of HRSR’s young cast, who performed with a professionalism and spirit well beyond their years.
From the moment the curtains opened, the audience was captivated. Maria, played with charm and vocal grace by 8th grader Abidail Argena, held the crowd spellbound with her rendition of “The Sound of Music” and “My Favorite Things.” Her performance was met with thunderous applause and not a few misty eyes from parents and teachers alike.
The Von Trapp children, ranging in age from 1st grade through 8th grade, were a standout ensemble — perfectly choreographed, pitch-perfect, and brimming with energy. The choreography for “Do-Re-Mi” and “So Long, Farewell” was both delightful and impressively polished. Each student embraced their role with conviction, adding authenticity to the storytelling.
A highlight of the show was the majestic and moving performance of “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” sung by Mia Fachine, in the role of the Mother Abbess — a moment that brought many to their feet in an emotional standing ovation.
Beyond the music, the set design, lighting, and costumes were top-notch. With the help of parents, faculty, and volunteers, the HRSR stage was transformed into the Austrian countryside and the halls of the Abbey, bringing a professional-grade visual experience to the school’s stage.
But what truly elevated the show was the spirit of unity and faith woven into every scene. In keeping with the school’s mission to form “Catholic, faith-driven leaders with a spirit of service,” the production was not just entertainment — it was an embodiment of what’s possible when students are encouraged to express their God-given gifts.
“This was more than a school play — it was a testament to the heart of our school community,” said Principal Flor Brown. “We are so proud of our students and so grateful for Ms. Reyes and the entire performing arts team.”
With performances like this, there’s no doubt that the arts are not just alive but thriving at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary – St. Richard Catholic School. And if the standing ovations, packed house, and glowing post-show reviews are any indication — the future of musical theater in South Dade is in very good hands.
SOUND OF MUSIC UNCUT HRSR 2025 PLAY/MUSICAL –
🎭 The Sound of Faith, Talent & Triumph: Inside the Performing Arts Program at HRSR — Home of the Knights ⚔️✨
Welcome to Our Lady of the Holy Rosary – St. Richard Catholic School, where education doesn’t just shape minds — it nurtures souls, sparks creativity, and inspires leaders. Proudly part of the Archdiocese of Miami, HRSR is more than just a school — it’s a sanctuary for excellence, service, and expression.
But step into the music room, and the rhythm of this mission comes to life through the powerful beat of the Performing Arts Program, led by none other than the dynamic and deeply beloved Ms. Sophia Reyes.
🎤 Meet the Maestro: Ms. Sophia Reyes
Berklee-trained. Passion-driven. Faith-filled.
With a degree from the Berklee College of Music and more than eight years of experience, Ms. Reyes isn’t just a teacher — she’s a mentor, coach, and creative force. Whether she’s working with a beginner learning chords or a seasoned vocalist preparing for auditions, her heart beats for one mission: to ignite artistic passion with purpose.
Private lessons in voice, piano, guitar, acting, and songwriting are customized for every learner — because at HRSR, students are seen, heard, and empowered to express themselves with courage and grace.
“Sophia doesn’t just teach music. She teaches belief — in yourself, in your gifts, and in what you can become.” – Parent Testimonial
🏆 From Classroom to Center Stage
Under Ms. Reyes’ guidance, the Performing Arts & Choir Club has reached first-place status in several high-profile competitions. The accolades are impressive — but it’s the transformation in the students that shines brightest.
🎓 Just this year, one of her protégés earned acceptance into the elite New World School of the Arts — a testament to her commitment to excellence and her student-first approach.
💫 The Mission in Motion
At HRSR, the performing arts are more than a program — they’re a living, breathing extension of the school’s mission:
“To provide an excellent program that promotes Catholic, faith-driven leaders with a spirit of service.”
And it’s working. Music here becomes a bridge between faith and imagination, discipline and freedom, tradition and innovation.
🎹 Want to Join the Journey?
Ms. Reyes is now accepting private students for the upcoming session!
📧 Reach out: inthekeyofsophie@gmail.com
📲 Follow: @iamsophiavictoria
📍 Visit: 18455 SW 97th Ave, Miami, FL – the Home of the Knights ⚔️✨
Whether your child is just discovering their voice or already mastering their craft, this is the place where hearts sing, talents grow, and futures begin.
🎬 Ready to Take Center Stage?
Follow @hrsrperformingarts for behind-the-scenes moments, upcoming showcases, and stories of young stars rising in faith and rhythm.
Tag your own performances with #HRSRKnights and #HRSRArts to join the movement of music, mission, and magic.
Step into the music room at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary – Saint Richard Catholic School, and you’ll immediately feel it — the energy, the inspiration, the passion that fills the air. At the center of it all is Ms. Sophia Reyes, the school’s vibrant Music Teacher and Performing Arts Director, a powerhouse of talent and dedication whose influence goes far beyond sheet music and stage cues.
A proud graduate of the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Ms. Reyes brings with her a world-class education and over eight years of transformative teaching experience. But what truly sets her apart is the way she lights a spark in her students — a spark that grows into confidence, creativity, and love for the arts.
Whether it’s voice, piano, guitar, acting, or songwriting, Ms. Reyes tailors each private lesson to the student’s unique voice and vision. She doesn’t just teach music — she mentors, nurtures, and elevates young artists, always keeping an eye out for students with a fire in their hearts and rhythm in their souls.
That dedication is paying off. Under her direction, the school’s performing arts and choir club have taken home first-place honors in numerous competitions, earning acclaim for their excellence, unity, and emotion-filled performances. Most recently, one of her students was accepted into the prestigious New World School of the Arts, a monumental achievement that speaks volumes about Ms. Reyes’ talent as an educator and coach.
Sophia doesn’t just shape musicians — she shapes futures.
If you or someone you know is looking to explore the world of music, deepen their craft, or find their voice in the performing arts, Ms. Reyes is currently accepting new students for private lessons.
🎶 To connect with her, reach out at:
📧 Email: Inthekeyofsophie@gmail.com
📲 Instagram: @iamsophiavictoria
Whether you’re a beginner with big dreams or an experienced performer ready to take the next step, Ms. Sophia Reyes is ready to help you shine.