Adria Schimmenti
Staff Writer
Carousel, a Golden Age musical by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, has taken the stage at Buckner Theater, bringing its timeless story of love, loss and redemption to campus audiences.
The musical centers on the complicated relationship between a mill worker and a carousel barker and has captivated audiences for decades. This production marks a milestone for the college’s theater department as the first show at Buckner Theater to be choreographed entirely by a student.
Senior Susannah Zellem, a double major in dance choreography and musical theater, choreographed all of the production’s dance numbers. Zellem’s work has been featured throughout the show, which includes a cast largely made up of seniors and juniors.
Senior Rachel Weiner, a member of the ensemble, said performing a show with darker themes has made the experience especially meaningful.
“It feels very special to be part of a show with these deeper meanings and darker themes,” Weiner said. “It reminds people why these shows were written in the first place.”
For many seniors, the production represents one of their final performances at the college. Weiner said the knowledge that Carousel is her last show here, has shifted her perspective during rehearsals and performances.
“Knowing that this is my last show has allowed me to take in the people around me during this production and enjoy their company,” she said. “I’ve learned to be more present because, as a senior, you can feel life coming at you while you’re finishing up school.”
Weiner said the close-knit nature of the theater department has strengthened both backstage relationships and onstage performances.
“My dance partner for one of the numbers is one of my best friends,” Weiner said. “It’s great because you’re able to have fun backstage, then step on stage and perform together.”
She added that the ensemble’s bond helps create a welcoming and engaging experience for audiences.
“It feels more like a family unit backstage, but when we step on stage, we’re welcoming the audience into a world we’ve created,” Weiner said.
As seniors prepare to graduate, many expressed gratitude for the support shown by the campus community and Lakeland audiences.
“I feel thankful for all the support that has been given to the theater department,” Weiner said. “It truly makes the shows feel appreciated when people come to hear and see a story we’ve worked on for months.”
Carousel will run Feb. 20–23, with matinee performances included in the schedule. Tickets are available at the box office outside Buckner Theater and online at fsc.universitytickets.com.
