By AJ Jaffari
What happens when one of the most beloved Golden Age musicals asks audiences to wrestle with its most difficult themes? Carousel at Woodminster Summer Musicals is a reminder that some of musical theatre’s greatest classics are also some of its most complicated. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved musical explores love, loss, redemption, and the consequences of our choices through a story that continues to spark conversation decades after its premiere. While the book undeniably reflects another era—and some of its subject matter can feel heavy and dated—the score remains one of the most beautiful ever written for the stage.
Set against the backdrop of a New England fishing village, Carousel follows the turbulent relationship between carnival barker Billy Bigelow and millworker Julie Jordan. Filled with sweeping orchestration, iconic melodies, and unforgettable dance sequences, the show reminds us why it continues to be revived despite the challenges of its source material. Woodminster embraces both the beauty and complexity of the piece, allowing the music to take center stage while honoring its Golden Age roots.
I’ll admit, Carousel has always been a musical that leaves me conflicted. The book contains themes that can feel difficult through a modern lens, and there are certainly moments that don’t resonate the way they once may have. Yet somehow, nestled within that darkness is one of the most memorable scores ever composed. And it certainly leaves me wanting to hear it time and time again. Song after song, Rodgers and Hammerstein remind us why their work has endured for generations. Combined with some of the most iconic dance sequences in musical theatre, this production allowed me to appreciate the artistry of the piece even more.
The cast delivered strong performances across the board, bringing sincerity and heart to these well-known characters. Cody Craven led the company as Billy Bigelow, giving a committed and emotionally layered performance. His acting carried tremendous weight, making Billy’s internal struggles feel genuine and compelling.
Opposite him, Elise Walters was wonderful as Julie Jordan. She brought warmth, quiet strength, and emotional honesty to the role, grounding many of the show’s biggest moments with a beautiful sincerity.
Ashley Garlick was another standout as Carrie Pipperidge. Her voice was absolutely gorgeous, and she infused the role with charm and optimism that made every appearance a delight. Michael Parrott also impressed as Enoch Snow, delivering a polished and memorable performance that added welcome humor and confidence to the production. And his voice is simply spectacular to listen to.
I also have to give a huge round of applause to the ensemble. This production asks a great deal of its company, particularly through its extensive dance sequences, and every performer rose to the occasion. Their energy and commitment elevated the storytelling throughout the evening.
One of my favorite aspects of the production was Sarah Pon and Blake Hennessy-York‘s choreography. Carousel contains some of the most iconic dance moments in the Golden Age repertoire, and Pon handled them beautifully. The movement felt elegant and full of life, helping tell the story in ways dialogue alone never could.
The production design also deserves recognition. Clay James’s scenic design, paired with the scenic artistry of Anna Chibisova, Chris Wetterson, and Zoe Ledbetter, created a warm and inviting world that beautifully captured the spirit of the piece. Ashley Garlick’s wig design was another unexpected highlight—the looks felt polished, period-appropriate, and thoughtfully crafted, adding another layer of authenticity to the production.
Carousel may not be a musical that speaks to everyone in the same way it once did, but there’s no denying the beauty of its score or the artistry required to bring it to life. Woodminster Summer Musicals has assembled a talented company that embraces both the challenges and triumphs of this classic, resulting in a production that’s heartfelt, visually engaging, and musically rewarding. If you’re a fan of Rodgers and Hammerstein—or simply appreciate the craftsmanship of Golden Age musical theatre—this is one well worth experiencing under the stars.
Carousel runs through July 19 and tickets are available here.
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