FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Nov. 9 2011

Webster University’s Conservatory of Theatre Arts Presents “Carousel”

Webster University’s Conservatory of Theatre Arts presents “Carousel,” book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and music by Richard Rodgers. The production will run from Nov. 16-20 in the Browning Mainstage Theatre of Webster University's Loretto-Hilton Center, 130 Edgar Road. Curtain time is 8 p.m., except Sunday, which will have a 2 p.m. matinee only. Admission is $12 for the general public and $6 for senior adults and students. For ticket reservations, please call the Fine Arts Hotline at 968-7128

Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel, based on a 1909 story by Ferenc Molnar, takes place between 1873 and 1888 in a small New England fishing village. The tale revolves around a love affair between Billy Bigelow, a traveling carousel barker, and Julie Jordan, a local factory worker. Desperate for money after learning that he is soon to become a father, Billy attempts a robbery to provide for Julie and their unborn child.

The show includes the well-known songs "If I Loved You," "June Is Bustin' Out All Over" and "You'll Never Walk Alone." Remounted on Broadway in 1997, the show was said to be Richard Rodger’s favorite.

"Carousel" won the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for "Best Musical" of 1945 and eight Donaldson Awards including Best Musical, Book, Lyrics and Score. The 1994 Broadway revival won its share of awards as well, receiving five Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, and in 1999, Time Magazine voted Carousel "Best Musical of the Century."

Visiting director Tim Ocel directs "Carousel."

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