From Manassas to the Mother Abbess: Kelly Glyptis Returns Home with The Sound of Music
What seems like a typical modern American family is anything but.
Rebecca Barnes - Prince William Living
August 11, 2025
When Prince William Living first featured Kelly Glyptis in 2014, she was a rising star making her professional debut. In the years since, the Manassas native has graced international stages, wowed audiences as Carlotta in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, on the West End, and built a reputation as a versatile performer in both opera and musical theatre. Now, Glyptis is back in Virginia, stepping into the role of Mother Abbess in Riverside Center for the Performing Arts’ production of The Sound of Music. For Kelly, it’s not just another role—it’s a homecoming, a chance to share her artistry with the community that first nurtured her love for the stage.
A Dream Role Close to Home
“I’m so thrilled to be returning to my roots here in Virginia, especially to perform one of my favorite roles.” Kelly shares. Growing up with Riverside Center for the Performing Arts in her backyard, she couldn’t resist the opportunity to be part of their 60th season anniversary. When she saw that the theatre was casting for The Sound of Music, she knew she had to audition. The stars aligned, and she found herself in the role of a lifetime: the Mother Abbess.
The Mother Abbess: A Sister, Not Just a Parent
Kelly’s portrayal of the Mother Abbess isn’t just about hitting the high notes—it’s about connection. “The Mother Abbess feels more like the eldest sister rather than a parent,” she explains. Having had the privilege of observing the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia, Kelly tapped into the deep sense of sisterhood that defines the relationship between the Mother Abbess and her charges. “We’re showing how the Mother Abbess is connected to the other women, especially Maria. She’s not just a figure of authority; she’s one of them,” she says.
Drawing inspiration from shows like Call the Midwife, Kelly’s performance aims to capture the rawness and authenticity of human relationships, whether in a monastery or on the stage. She humorously notes that while Carlotta in Phantom of the Opera had no patience, the Mother Abbess would likely teach her a thing or two about understanding and compassion.
Bridging Opera and Musical Theatre
The Sound of Music. “It’s so important to honor the traditions of the production, but I also have the freedom to blend my operatic and musical theatre experience,” she says. With the grand operatic moments of Climb Every Mountain mixed with intimate, tender moments, Kelly’s performance promises to be both powerful and heartfelt.
“I want this to be a visceral experience,” she says, reflecting on how she hopes audiences will feel, not just watch, the production. It’s the connection with the audience in a smaller venue like Riverside that excites her most.
Returning to Manassas: A Full Circle Moment
For Kelly, returning to perform so close to home is an emotional full circle. “There are so many people who have supported me, and being able to perform for my family and dearest friends here is incredibly special.” she shares. She compares the feeling to a football player getting to play the Super Bowl in their hometown—a moment of pride and connection. For Kelly, it’s the chance to share her artistry with the community that helped shape her.
Community Engagement and Giving Back
Performing regionally holds a unique place in Kelly’s heart. “It’s wonderful to connect with the community and give back,” she explains. As part of her regional tour, Kelly is excited to engage with local high school students through masterclasses. She emphasizes that while touring internationally or performing in long-running shows can make it harder to connect on a personal level, the local stage offers a unique opportunity to give back to the community that has supported her.
Reflections on Phantom of the Opera and Future Dreams
After a two-year run in the West End’s Phantom of the Opera, Kelly reflects on the experience with gratitude. “It was fantastic. Being on stage with some of the most talented people in the business was an honor,” she says. Her role as Carlotta allowed her to use her operatic range, hitting notes like high Cs and Ds, while also embracing her musical theatre roots.
Looking ahead, Kelly’s dream roles still include playing Nancy in Oliver! and Magda in The Consul. But she’s also eager to create new roles, having had the privilege of performing in world premieres. “There’s nothing like bringing a character to life for the first time,” she says.
Advice for Aspiring Performers from Prince William County
For the next generation of performers from Prince William County, Kelly’s advice is simple: “Never stop learning.” The industry is constantly evolving, and staying open to new techniques and experiences is essential. She acknowledges that the path to success is not without its challenges, especially dealing with rejection. But, as she says, if the love for the craft is real, it will carry you through.
Kelly’s journey—from Manassas to the West End and back again—is a powerful reminder of the importance of community, connection, and staying true to your roots while reaching for the stars. Whether performing in Fredericksburg or on an international stage, Kelly continues to inspire and uplift those around her.
broadwayworld.com/baltimore/regional/The-Sound-of-Music-4331552