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Baron Elberfeld:
A neighbor of the Von Trapps and one of the "Old Guards" of Austria - violently opposed to the takeover of his beloved country by Nazi Germany. Can double with other roles in the ensemble. The baron attends the ball thrown by Captain Von Trapp in Elsa's honor.Baron Elberfeld is an Austrian aristocrat in "The Sound of Music" who represents the old Austrian nobility. Though a minor role, he's an important piece of the social fabric surrounding the von Trapp family.
- Austrian nobleman and friend of Captain von Trapp
- Member of the upper-class social circle in Salzburg
- Appears primarily during the Act I party scene at the von Trapp villa
- Represents the established aristocracy facing the looming threat of Nazi influence
- Distinguished, dignified, and likely somewhat traditional in his values
Acting Tips for Baron Elberfeld
Physical Presence
- Carry yourself with dignity and aristocratic bearing
- Practice precise, elegant movements - nothing rushed or clumsy
- Consider a slightly formal posture - head high, shoulders back
- Small gestures that convey refinement: the way you hold a glass, shake hands, or nod in greeting
Character Development
- Develop a clear backstory for yourself: How long has he known the Captain? What's his opinion on the changing political climate?
- Consider how Austrian aristocrats would have behaved during this time period (1930s)
- Think about his reaction to Maria as an outsider to their social circle
- Decide if he's more progressive or conservative in his views
Vocal Approach
- Speak with clarity and precision
- A slight Austrian accent might be appropriate if you can maintain it consistently
- Use a measured pace of speech that suggests education and breeding
- Your tone might be warm with friends but more formal with those of lower status
During Scenes
- React to what's happening even when you don't have lines
- Show appropriate shock/concern during politically charged moments
- During party scenes, engage silently with other characters, creating the illusion of ongoing conversation
- Pay attention to the proper etiquette of the period in greeting, dining, etc.
Technical Considerations
- Make sure your reactions are visible to the audience even in group scenes
- Be consistent in your character choices even when in the background
- Take direction well - be prepared to adjust your interpretation based on director feedback
- Find ways to make brief moments memorable without pulling focus
Even though Baron Elberfeld is a supporting role, he helps establish the world of the play and the social position of the von Trapp family. Your portrayal helps the audience understand what's at stake as the Nazis gain control.
Historical Details:
Austrian Resistance to the Anschluss:
Baron Elberfeld represents the segment of Austrian society that resisted the Nazi takeover of their country.
Many Austrians, particularly those from the older generation, were proud of their nation's history and culture and were wary of being absorbed into Germany.
The "Old Guard":
The term "Old Guard" refers to the traditional Austrian aristocracy and upper class, who often held conservative political views and were deeply rooted in Austrian traditions.
These individuals saw themselves as the guardians of Austrian identity and were opposed to any attempts to undermine it.
Social Gatherings and Political Discourse:
The ball thrown by Captain Von Trapp in Elsa's honor would have been an opportunity for members of Austrian high society to discuss the political situation and express their opinions.
Characters like Baron Elberfeld would have used such occasions to voice their concerns about the Anschluss and to rally support for the resistance.
Overall Acting Notes:
"The Sound of Music" balances serious historical events with family warmth and musical joy.
Each character contributes to this beloved story about finding courage and staying true to your values, even in difficult times.
Remember that the emotion behind each song is as important as the notes.
Project your voice to the back of the theater.
Articulate clearly, especially at the ends of sentences.
Look at each line and "punch" key words that the audience must hear to understand what you are saying.
React and listen to others when they're speaking, even if you don't have lines.
Make sure the audience can see your face when you're speaking.
Looking at the script page you've shared, I can see you're playing Baron Elberfeld in "The Sound of Music" with two lines in Scene Eleven:
- "I am not a German. I'm an Austrian."
- "I hope she isn't ill."
Let me explain the context of these lines and offer some acting tips:
Understanding Your Character and Lines
Baron Elberfeld is an Austrian aristocrat caught in a tense political moment just before the Anschluss (Nazi Germany's annexation of Austria). In this scene:
- You're having a "spirited argument" with Herr Zeller, who represents Nazi sympathizers
- When Zeller accuses you of having "German blood," you firmly assert your Austrian identity
- Your second line shows concern for Frau Schraeder, displaying your good manners despite the tension
Acting Tips for These Lines
For "I am not a German. I'm an Austrian":
- Deliver this with dignity and pride - it's a statement of national identity in a politically charged moment
- Consider a slight pause between the sentences to emphasize the distinction
- Your tone should convey that being Austrian is fundamental to your identity
- The highlighted text and arrows in the script suggest this is a significant moment
For "I hope she isn't ill":
- This shows your character's good breeding and social grace even in difficult circumstances
- Deliver with genuine concern but restrained emotion, appropriate for aristocracy
- This line helps transition the scene toward the terrace
Character Development Tips
- Express dignity through your posture and movements - stand tall, move deliberately
- You're described as "not dancing" and in an argument, so maintain tension in your body language
- Remember you're with your wife (Baroness Elberfeld) throughout this scene
Though you have few lines, your character represents the Austrian resistance to Nazi takeover, making your presence important to the story's historical context.
Baron Elberfeld's "Sound of Music"Presentation
A Dramaturgical Introduction for the Oak Harbor Culture Festival
Saturday May 3, 2025 2 PM"Grüß Gott, meine Damen und Herren! I am Baron Elberfeld of Salzburg, Austria. A man of considerable means and social standing, if I may say so myself. I have been asked to fulfill the duties of the Whidbey Playhouse Dramaturg and share with you the remarkable story behind 'The Sound of Music' - a tale I have witnessed firsthand as a dear friend of Captain Georg von Trapp.
"The year is 1938, a most troubling time for our beloved Austria. After the Great War ended in 1918, our once-mighty Austro-Hungarian Empire was reduced to a small, struggling nation. Our dear Captain von Trapp - a decorated naval hero now without a navy - has invited me to his magnificent villa overlooking the Salzburg lake. We all sense change is coming, though some of us [adjust bow tie proudly] believed our position would shield us from whatever political winds might blow.
"What you will witness in the Whidbey Playhouse production is based on the true story of the von Trapp Family Singers. Maria Augusta Kutschera, a young novice from Nonnberg Abbey, was sent to be governess to the Captain's seven children. I was present when they performed at the Salzburg Festival before their daring escape from Austria following the Anschluss - when the German Reich annexed our homeland on March 12, 1938.
"This remarkable true story first became a German film called 'The Trapp Family' in 1956. Then the brilliant American composers Rodgers and Hammerstein transformed it into a Broadway musical that opened in 1959, starring Mary Martin. But perhaps you know it best from the 1965 film starring the enchanting Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer.
"The film won five Academy Awards including Best Picture! It has been seen by over one billion people worldwide - more than one-eighth of humanity! The original Broadway production ran for 1,443 performances. The music - ah, the music! 'Edelweiss,' 'My Favorite Things,' 'Do-Re-Mi' - these songs have become part of the world's cultural fabric.
"At its heart, this is a story of moral courage. When the Gauleiter - the Nazi regional leader - demanded that Captain von Trapp accept a commission in the German Navy, he refused. While some of us [look down briefly with regret] chose accommodation with the new regime, the Captain chose principles over safety.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I cordially invite you to reserve a seat at our magnificent Whidbey Playhouse to hear the von Trapp family perform! The Captain - a true Austrian patriot, war hero, and my dear friend - has assembled his talented children into a magnificent singing ensemble under the direction of the former novice, now his wife, Maria.
"Shows begin on June 6th and continues through June 29th. Come witness their story of love, music, and courage in the face of tyranny!
"And now, I shall permit my fellow cast members to continue our musical preview of our production. Danke schön for your kind attention! Auf Wiedersehen!"
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MENUBaron Elberfeld appears to represent the "old Austria" resisting Nazi influence
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