Carousel

I think that Carousel is one of the 'Marmites' of musical theatre, you either love it or hate it. I am, I have to say, in the hate it camp and I therefore always challenge a company to convert me! Abbey Players gave a fabulous production of this show and I was thoroughly entertained.
The ensemble were great and the focus on stage was amazing as was the entire chorus sound. The set was great, the lighting sublime and the costumes perfect and all these elements added to the production.
The principals were strong and mention must go to Jane Williams as Nettie, with a fabulous voice, Bethan Williams as Louise, who danced so wonderfully in the ballet sequence supported by the very talented Jonathan Woodward, Joanne Griffiths as a perfectly characterised Carrie, with Gareth Evans as Enoch Snow. Dudley Owen gave a very fine performance as Starkeeper and Dr. Seldon and Noa Radford was a very good Enoch Snow Jr. Lovely cameo performances were given by David Arran, Jean Buckland, Steve Powell, Simon Tucker and Tim Williams.
Special mention must go to Michael Aubin, who gave an excellent performance as Jigger Craigin and the very talented Greg Arthur as Billy Bigelow. Greg sang the role very well and the audince were all captivated by his exceptional portrayal of Billy, my hearty congratulations. The star of the evening was, however, Sarah Clatworthy. She has an amazing stage presence and every single word she says or sings is perfectly delivered and believable. Sarah's vocal ability is fabulous and she is a very fine actor indeed. She brought a tear to my eye during the death of Billy, for all the right reasons.
Well done to the entire company and you may have succeeded in changing my 'Marmite' mind!

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