This party is based on the film (or stage play) The Sound of Music. Virtually everyone has seen at least part of the film, knows some of the songs, and can identify with the location or characters. The theme works well for both adults and children – even teenagers are happy to sing along and dress up in costumes. Set up for the host is relatively cheap and guests can either get very creative or simply rent a costume. The real trick is to get everyone to participate so that all of the guests put aside their inhibitions and join in with the fun. Unless a lake side Austrian Schloss is available, the party host should concentrate on creating a fun, slightly over-the-top atmosphere with plenty of fun props for guests to use. Inside locations should be decorated as themed areas such as the convent (candles, crosses, benches, plain tables, statues), the ballroom (music, drinks trays, Austrian flags, formal chairs), or the theater (a stage, chairs in rows, puppet show, microphone, karaoke machine). Outside spaces can be used as hills (pictures, cutout shapes, cows) or courtyards (benches, dancing areas, hanging lights). The key part of a successful Sound of Music party is to get guest participation. This is much easier if everyone is dressed in character such as a nun, a German soldier, one of the children, or Maria. The host should have all the songs available and ready to play and each guest should receive a copy of the lyrics so that they can sing along. It is suggested that some guests (usually the keen ones) are encouraged to prompt people into spontaneous singing by starting a song. Specific food and drinks are less important that props that can encourage participation like old guitars, puppets, nun's wimples, or pigtail wigs. These should be used to prompt a guest into character. For example, if you have the guitar you are Maria or if you have a wig you are one of the children. A Sound of Music party is a great opportunity for everyone to play a character and do things that they would not normally do as themselves, such as sing in front of people, dance a polka, or act like a nun. Create a slightly surreal atmosphere and throw yourself into the spirit – you will end up singing to the hills and feeling alive with the sound of music!