Broadway and classic movie musical lovers have something to look forward to this week in Demorest. The Piedmont College Conservatory of Music and Theatre Department will present Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel live Feb. 25-28 at the Swanson Mainstage Theatre.
Carousel opened on Broadway in April 1945 and was adapted as a major motion picture in 1945. It also had Broadway revivals in 1994 and 2018.
Working with elements of redemption and forgiveness, the creative team of Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein take the audience to a small town in Maine. Many claim that the score is the most operatic of all the team’s musicals. The script follows anti-hero Billy Bigelow and tackles relationship issues rarely discussed in the mid-1940s. Piedmont’s production hopes to highlight that the destination is only half as powerful as the journey.
Carousel is directed by Bill Gabelhausen, theatre department co-chair, with musical direction by Wallace Hinson, director of the Conservatory of Music and associate dean of fine arts.
“My journey with this production of Carousel has been awe-inspiring. Watching these talented students work as a creative team to bring this challenging score and storyline to life has been a joy from day one,” Gabelhausen said. “I thank anyone and everyone who has had a hand in this collaborative process. You make me proud to be an educator and theatre professional.”
Former Habersham Central High School Stage Raider and frequent Habersham Community Theater performer Ellawyn Ketch of Clarkesville is among the cast and crew.
Four performances are scheduled. Thursday-Saturday performances will take place at 7:30 p.m., with the Sunday show starting at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for seniors. Piedmont students, staff, and faculty are admitted free.
Due to COVID-19, all shows at the Mainstage Theater are limited to half the theater’s capacity to allow for social distancing. To reserve tickets, call the box office at 706-778-8500, ext. 1355.
