At the end of this storm of a show, the cast took their bows as one. This was only appropriate as the supporting cast matched the principals in every aspect of a thoroughly enjoyable production of Carousel.
The show has a number of memorable songs notably ‘You'll never walk alone.' The musical is set on the shores of Maine, New England and tells the story of the meeting, courtship and difficult marriage of Julie (Alexandra Silber) and Billy the barker at the Carousel(Jeremiah James).
The opening tableau introduces the setting to the long overture before Julie and her friend Carrie take on the action. Carrie played by newcomer Lauren Hood is irrepressible in the role, demonstrating a good singing voice, absolutely clear diction and ability to act a wide range of emotions. Jeremiah James excelled with the dark brooding side and got the audience onside with the soliloquy ‘My Boy Bill'. Before that Lesley Garrett sang ‘June is Bustin' Out all Over with tremendous verve playing the ‘auntie role'.
The second Act got off to a riotous start with ‘A Real Nice Clambake' before the serious part of the plot unfolded. Both Lesley Garrett and Alexandra Silber sang with great emotion but again the scene between Jigger (the Baddy) played by Graham Mac Duff and Carrie (Lauren Hood) caught the eye.
The staging was really effective including the ‘deliveries' scene. The ballet taking place some 15 years later forms a major part of the second Act and at the heart of it is Louise played by Lindsey Wise. The ballet is varied and has some innovative fight moves. While the show has many sad aspects, it does finish on a hopeful note.
Runs to Sat at 7.30pm with mats at 2.30pm (thurs/sat)
Tickets £17- £35