Trapp Family Story

After finishing her teacher training, Maria decides to become a nun at age 18. She travels to Salzburg to visit the strict Nonnberg Abbey and applies for admission, where she is accepted as a novice. Her cheerful, free-spirited nature often clashes with the convent’s discipline.

Maria begins life as a novice at Nonnberg Abbey, but her free-spirited nature clashes with the strict rules. The other sisters view her as a problematic presence, even as she remains kind and well-intentioned.

The Mother Superior sends Maria to Baron Georg von Trapp's house for nine months as a governess to his seven children. The children are withdrawn and rebellious at first, but Maria's sincere and joyful approach gradually earns their trust.

During her stay, Maria's energy and kindness bring happiness to the seven children. Through music, stories, and poetry, they grow closer to her and begin to trust her as their caregiver.

Georg von Trapp realizes he is falling in love with Maria and ends his engagement to Lady Yvonne. He starts to imagine a future with Maria as the children open their hearts to her.

Maria hesitates about marriage and even returns to the convent for a time. Ultimately, she recognizes her deep feelings for Georg and accepts his proposal, choosing to marry and become the children's mother.

Maria and Georg marry and form a blended family with seven children. Their life at the Trapp villa begins to incorporate love, discipline, and song as they adjust to a new everyday rhythm.

Facing financial difficulties, the Trapp family converts their villa into a guesthouse to attract guests. The plan helps sustain them, while the children continue to sing and perform wherever possible.

Visiting opera singer Lotte Lehmann hears the children singing and encourages them to perform at the Salzburg Festival. Her encouragement marks the turning point toward public recognition.

Their performances captivate audiences, leading to radio appearances and a concert at Vienna's Kleine Halle. The rising fame expands beyond their local circle and invites wider attention.

They meet American impresario Mr. Wagner, who offers them a U.S. tour. The family initially declines, unsure about leaving their homeland and loved ones.

As Nazi influence grows, Austria comes under regime control and pressures the Trapps to sing at Hitler's parties. Georg, a war hero and patriot, refuses to cooperate, and their loyal butler Hans is revealed as a Nazi watcher.

With mounting pressure, trusted friend Franz helps the family devise a plan to escape. They decide to leave their home secretly, seeking safety far from the regime.

They reach Italy and eventually New York, starting anew in the United States. With Wagner's assistance, they gain fame performing their native folk songs and begin a new life abroad.