Paris Solimanzadeh
A large cast of Pierce College students will be performing Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Carousel” this summer in the Performance Arts building.
The Pierce College Theatre department is currently having auditions for this musical; singers, dancers and actors are encouraged to go to the Theatre Department to sign up.
This performance of “Carousel” is planned to have the largest cast yet with a minimum of 36 student performers, including 10 children from various schools in the San Fernando Valley.
The children will range from ages 6 to 14.
“We have already cast some of the most talented students that we’ve had in any musical,” said Gene Putnam, chair of the Theatre Arts Department.
“We are here to educate and give students hands on experience in theatre, and musical theatre is the best kind of theatre,” said Putnam.
“Carousel” is considered to be one of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s greatest musicals and one of the first ever to include an extensive singing dialogue. It first opened on Broadway, on April 19, 1945 and was groundbreaking for its time. It includes a beautiful ballet scene and a series of waltzes introducing each character. It was the first musical to ever contain a tragic plot. It takes place at a carnival in New England during the summer.
“We want to take the audience on a great theatrical journey,” said Putnam regarding his expectations.
The Pierce College Theatre Arts Department has been putting on a summer musical since 1993.
Putnam will be directing this performance and Lana Wolverton will be stage manager.
The dates of this performance are set for July 13 through 22 with a special preview performance on July 12. They will be running matinee and evening showings. Tickets are on sale now, $15 for students and senior citizens and $20 for general admission.
Contact the theatre department at (818) 719-6488 to place your order.
Stage crew sets up the Mainstage for the summer show “Carousel” ()