What the Papers Said...

Review - Carousel (from Southern Daily Echo, 21/11/08)

A journey through social difference, Billy Bigelow (Iain Steel) gives a pithy performance as fairground barker, leaving his world to marry innocent and trusting Julie Jordan (Kerry-Jayne Lilly). Culminating in tragedy, he kills himself following a bungled robbery and a bout of conscience.

A hush falls when young Lilly finds her dying love and sings You'll never walk alone through her grief, joined by Nettie Fowler (Carole Lilly) and the handkerchiefs come out when he returns to earth to see his daughter, Louise (Lyndsay Smith) who conveyed her unhappiness through dance, and he finally tells Julie he loves her.

There were some excellent principal performances. Carrie Pipperidge (Frances Stirrup) was the sensible, supportive friend and shared some touching moments with Julie. In direct contrast Jigger Craigin (Rick Bremner) gave a dark and convincing performance as Billy's "friend".

The ensemble focused well on their characters and gave us rousing numbers such as June is bustin' out all over, which brought summer to this November evening. A large number of set, props and costumes added to this very enjoyable show.

Reviewer: Rebecca Welsh