BWW Reviews: CAROUSEL at Plays and Players

The production of Carousel currently playing at Plays and Players is an interesting adaptation by Benjamin F. Glazer of Rodgers and Hammerstein's classic musical. Carousel is the story of the romance between mill girl Julie Jordan and carousel barker Billy Bigelow. While the production has some high points, overall I cannot say it was an adaptation I enjoyed, much of which must be blamed on the cuts to the script and cast. The script lacks the character development needed to understand the relationships, especially the central love story between Billy and Julie. It also leads to unexplained jumps in time and place. While I understand the need to reduce the cast size, without an ensemble, numbers like "June is Bustin' Out All Over," which is usually a large, choreographed production number proceeded by the arrival of sailors, simply becomes awkward and out of place.

 

The standout performer of this cast is Eileen Cella, as Carrie Pipperidge, Julie's best friend. Her unbelievable voice and full commitment to every scene is unparalleled in this production. Among all the relationships in the musical, it is the friendship between Julie (Theresa Leahy) and Carrie that is the most believable. Mention must be made of Tom Osborne for his performance of Billy's no good friend, Jigger, and Patricia Mengers as a rather sassy Mrs. Bascombe. Perhaps the biggest problem with the production is the lack of chemistry between Billy (John D'Alonzo) and Julie. While D'Alonzo acts the part decently, there seems to be no reason for Julie to like him, for him to want to give up the life he loves to marry Julie, and no reason for Julie to stay with Billy after he hits her.

 

One of the few highlights of the show is the second act Ballet, during which Billy sees his fifteen year old daughter Louise (Justina Ercole) dancing on the beach with a carnival boy (Jonathan Rivera). Through this dance, Billy sees history repeating itself as the carnival boy abuses and seduces his daughter. The partnering section between Ercole and Rivera is a delight to watch as both move with incredible grace. Their technique is impeccable and there is a sense of chemistry within the movement as the dance switches between sensual and abusive.

 

The set is impressive for such a small space and makes good use of the fly system as well as many moveable pieces. At times it helps alleviate the confusion about place caused by the cut-down book. The show also features beautiful period costumes. 

 

Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel runs at Plays and Players now through June 12^th. For more information please see the official press release.

 

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