Preview: Carousel by Rodgers and Hammerstein

Trowbridge Amateur Operatic Society

Trowbridge Civic Hall

TAOS members soaked up the atmosphere when they visited Britain’s largest traditional fairground at Hollycombe, near Liphook in Hampshire, where a carousel dated around the turn of the last century is in working order.

Society member Bryan Hussey arranged for the group to take the trip to Hollycombe for the operatic photocall.

He said “We thought it would be a great idea to take the cast to a working fairground carousel but finding one was the problem.

“Then we discovered Hollycombe, which was amazing with all the traditional fairground attractions.”

The production, directed by Kirsty Moore, is set toward the end of the 19th century, with the swaggering carnival barker Billy Bigelow captivating and marring naive millworker Julie Jordan.

The story unfolds with romance and tragedy and Billy’s ghostly return, 15 years later for one day, to meet the daughter he never knew.

The production is taking to the stage at Trowbridge Civic Hall on Wednesday, running to Saturday, May 23.

Tickets at £8 adults, £6 children are available at Trowbridge Tourist Information Centre and on 01225 710535 during the day on and from 01225 769230 evenings.