South Side High School's much anticipated spring musical: Carousel

For the past several months, South Side High School’s annual spring musical has been in the works. It is almost that time of year – when Rockville Centre audiences are dazzled by the highest caliber of talent from its teenage performers. Last year, South Side theater teacher and director Pamela Seiderman brought audiences a powerful production of "Les Miserables," and this year’s production promises to be just as emotionally intense and beautiful. This spring, South Side will be putting on the renowned Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, "Carousel."

Taking place in late 1800’s New England, "Carousel" tells the story of Billy Bigelow, played by South Side junior Eric Carey, a carousel barker who falls in love with the mill girl Julie Jordan, played by South Side senior Margaret Brennan. The musical’s themes revolve around the cyclical nature of life, and the continual emergence of hope in human hearts that keeps any person from ever “walking alone."

Featuring such beloved songs as "What’s the Use of Wonderin’?," "If I Loved You" and "You’ll Never Walk Alone," the production is sure to touch every audience member’s heart. Other leading roles include Louise (Danielle Aliotta); Jigger Craigin (Michael DeMarco); Carrie Pipperidge (Casey Dupler); Starkeeper/Doctor Seldon (Etai Klein); Enoch Snow (Daniel Kriss); Mrs. Mullin (Anastasia McCrystal) and Nettie Fowler (Crystalyn

Wynter).

The ensemble of "Carousel" also plays a vital and beautiful role in telling this timeless story. Seniors Kate Herzlin and Lauren Zipkin serve as the assistant director and stage manager, respectively. In addition to the director, the adults leading the production are Christine Hall, choreographer; Gene Kaplan, pit conductor; Andrea Patterson, music director; Russell Reid, producer: and Dr. Brian Zuar, director of the arts.

The performances will take place in the South Side High School auditorium on the evenings of April 22, 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m. each night. Tickets can be purchased both in advance and at the door for $10.