In this episode, host Charlie Connelly looks at the life of stepmother and matriarch of the Trapp Family Singers Maria von Trapp. Hers was a story of rags to riches, back to rags and progressing to riches once again. The turbulent life of her and her family was the inspiration for the 1959 iconic Broadway musical The Sound of Music, and later 1965 film version. While others profited from the feature, she did not. Nonetheless, she welcomed the film’s arrival. In fact, if audiences gaze into the background of the scene where a cautious Julie Andrews sings away her troubles as she leaves the nunnery, they can see the real Maria von Trapp, wearing traditional Austrian clothing leading her daughter and granddaughter across the street.
Latest in Great European Lives
Joseph Bologne
In this episode, host Charlie Connelly explores the life of French classical composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. He lived an extraordinary life in extraordinary circumstances, performing for and with European royalty and president John Adams called him the most accomplished man in Europe.
Greta Garbo
In this episode, host Charlie Connelly examines the life of Swedish-American actress Greta Garbo. She was always called a recluse, but this was not strictly true. Residing in the heart of Manhattan, she could often be found in art galleries and auction houses alike.
Herbert Lom
In this episode, host Charlie Connelly delves into the life of Czech–born British actor Herbert Lom. He was most identified for his performance as Charles Dreyfus in the Pink Panther series, an endearing character that was a welcome change from sinister accusations Lom constantly received as a Czech residing in Britain during the Second World War.
Roald Amundsen
In this episode, host Charlie Connelly discusses the life of Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen. The mystery of the Earth’s poles has long tantalised explorers and Amundsen was no exception.
Zsa Zsa Gábor
In this episode, host Charlie Connelly explores the life of Hungarian-American actress and socialite Zsa Zsa Gábor. With one of the most unforgettable personalities of the 20th century, she helped create a modern celebrity.