In one final collaboration between Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, The Sound of Music is based on a true story (The Von Trapp Family Singers), telling a tale of a family's growth, hope, and strength through the tumultuous time period at the onset of World War II. Set in Austria in the late 1930s, the heart of invasion, Captain Von Trapp is trying to raise his seven children after becoming a widower; however, he is running his house more like the Navy and less like a family, with strict rules and high expectations for his children to follow to the letter.
Meanwhile, Maria Rainer, a young woman who is having trouble following the rules and regulations of her own surroundings - the Nonnberg Abbey. Mother Abbess takes some pity on Maria, sending her to the Von Trapp's to serve as the governess. Joy, laughter, fun, and music follow Maria to the Von Trapp home, changing the forlorn and grieving children into happy, carefree, and excited young kids. Aloof and annoyed at first, Captain Von Trapp eventually falls for Maria's free spirit and charm. Maria and Captain Von Trapp quickly fall in love and, with Mother Abbess's blessing, get married.
Upon return from their honeymoon, Captain Von Trapp and Maria learn that Austria has been invaded and the Captain must come out of retirement and rejoin the Navy. With officers on the doorstep, the Von Trapp family escapes during a family musical concert with the help of their friend, Max. The Von Trapp family flees over the mountains of Switzerland to safety.
Adapted from https://stageagent.com/shows/musical/579/the-sound-of-music