An exciting musical is coming to Newman University’s De Mattias Performance Hall Nov. 6-9.
Professor and Director of Theatre Mark Mannette is excited to lead his Newman team in “Carousel,” which was first created by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II in 1945.
About the show
The story revolves around carousel worker Billy Bigelow, whose romance with millworker Julie Jordan comes at the price of both their jobs. To provide for Julie and their unborn child, Billy participates in a robbery. After it goes tragically wrong, he is given a chance to make things right.
Showtimes and tickets
All “Carousel” performances will occur in the Newman University De Mattias Fine Arts Center Performance Hall.
For Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening performances, the show starts at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 7 p.m. The matinee performance on Sunday Nov. 9, starts at 2 p.m. with doors opening at 1:30 p.m.
Tickets are available online at newmanuniversitytheatre.org and will also be sold at the door. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for seniors, faculty, staff and military members, $5 for students and free for Newman University students who show their student ID.
The team
Mannette is collaborating with the two new assistant professors of music at Newman University, Mary Ellen Swords and David Pérez, and guest choreographer Yannic Dozier. Swords has the responsibilities of the musical director, while Pérez is the conductor of the pit musicians.
Mannette said he has enjoyed his work on the classic production with help from students and talent across the Wichita community.
“We have a great team which will make it the best production it can be,” he said.
Meet the leads
Newman student Danielle Brown plays the lead female role of Julie in “Carousel.” She is most excited to join her fellow cast and give the local community a “truly awesome show,” she said.
“We get the opportunity to experience their hardships, friendships and most importantly their harrowing love story,” Brown said. “‘Carousel’ features comedic characters, but also conflicts with grief and love. It’s ultimately an incredible journey that can appeal to all types of audience members.”
Max Dutton, host of Kansas Now and a morning anchor and reporter for KWCH 12 News, said playing the role of his character, Billy, was “a dream come true.”
“It’s the biggest role I’ve ever played in my life, and it’s a blessing,” Dutton said. “I think it’s my two passions intertwined — anchoring the news, hosting the show that I have now every morning and doing this. You can’t beat it. It makes the rough schedule of about four hours of sleep a night worth it.”
Dutton emphasized Brown’s sentiments that “Carousel” offers something for everyone. He also highlighted the connection between spiritual elements within the production and Newman University’s mission of serving its students.
“It’s a story about hope and finding your north star as a person,” Dutton explained. “Especially with my character, the message is about finding the journey of where you end up afterwards and getting a second chance. A lot of people may not think they ever get a second chance. … Maybe this production can help lead people in the right way.”
He added, “It will also give you a great score to listen to. If you want to just come listen to the music, you aren’t going to be disappointed.”
Reserve your tickets today
Reserve tickets for Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Carousel,” being staged at Newman University Nov. 6-9.
