A revival of Rogers and Hammerstein’s Carousel is headed to Broadway next spring! Not only will audiences get to hear the memorable music from the show, but it will be performed by some of Broadway’s finest performers…including a MET opera star transitioning to musical theatre.
You’ll Never Walk Alone
It was announced in April of this year that Jack O’Brien (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) would be directing the revival. Stars include Tony nominee Joshua Henry (Aaron Burr, Hamilton Tour) as Billy Bigelow, Tony winner Jessie Mueller (Carole King, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical) as Julie Jordan, and the Metroplitan Opera’s Renee Fleming as Nettie Fowler. This role is set to mark Fleming’s retirement from her opera career and the start of a new part of her performing life.
The Plot is Bustin’ Out All Over
Carousel is the story of Julie Jordan, a young woman who goes to the fair with her friend for an escape from everyday life. She meets an older man named Billy Bigelow who works at the fair and immediately falls in love with him. This show is the story of their unhealthy relationship and the way love ties people together under any circumstance.
The show has yet to book a definite Broadway house though it is set to open on March 23rd of 2018. The show has received a lot of criticism overtime for Julie Jordan’s weak disposition as the female heroine. It will be interesting to see Jack O’Brien’s take on this musical classic and the ways in which he will make the issues of the musical more appropriate. Besides bringing new issues to light and evening the score between Julie and Billy, we will be able to hear Renee Fleming sing all of the most memorable songs in the production.