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Classic at Civic Center Opens July 31
70th Anniversary of ‘Carousel’ Fitting for Hawthorne Players
(Special to The Independent News)
When the curtain opens for Hawthorne Players’ production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical Carousel at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre on July 31, it will mark the 70th anniversary of the show’s debut in 1945, as well as the founding of Hawthorne Players in December of that same year.
Of course, Carousel was presented on the Broadway stage, while Hawthorne’s Hobgoblin House was staged in the humble auditorium at Ferguson’s Central School, but both Hawthorne and Carousel have shown real staying power.
Carousel tells the story of a swaggering, carefree carnival barker, Billy Bigelow, who falls in love with a mill worker, Julie Jordan. Years after he dies tragically, Billy is given a chance to return for a day to try to brighten the life of his unhappy 15-year-old daughter Louise. Dramatically powerful, the show features some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most memorable music, including “June is Bustin’ Out All Over,” “If I Loved You,” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Hawthorne’s first play produced at Central School was hardly a classic. Hobgoblin House was a light-hearted, forgettable, mystery play, but the small group of teachers and parents had such fun doing it that they immediately decided to present another show the next year. Seventy years later, Hawthorne Players lives on as one of St. Louis area’s most respected community theatre companies.
The group’s current production of Carousel will be presented on July 31, Aug. 1, 7, 8 at 8 p.m. and on Aug. 9 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and students and may be reserved by visiting or calling the box office at 314-921-5678 or ordered online at www.florissantmo.com
Directed by Adam Grun, the show features outstanding vocalists and a 30-piece orchestra directed by Michael Blackwood. Grun notes that ” Carousel was the personal favorite of Rodgers and Hammerstein and it still make such an emotional impact. It is as relevant today as it was in 1945. The characters are strong, the music is beautiful and the story is compelling. “ For more information about Carousel and Hawthorne Players, visit www.hawthorneplayers.com.
