Watch Live from Lincoln Center: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel z29f

Live From Lincoln Center: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel is a live recording of the Broadway revival of the timeless classic musical by the legendary composing duo Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein. The show was captured live at the Imperial Theater in New York City and broadcast on PBS as part of the acclaimed PBS Live From Lincoln Center series. Carousel first opened on Broadway in 1945 and has since been revived several times, proving its enduring appeal to audiences of all ages. 4m7049

The musical takes place in a small fishing village in Maine and tells the story of Julie Jordan, a naive and innocent young girl who falls in love with Billy Bigelow, a self-destructive and temperamental carousel barker. Despite their love for each other, their relationship is complicated by their different social backgrounds and Billy's tendency towards violent outbursts. The plot explores themes of love, loss, regret, and redemption, making it a timeless tale that continues to resonate with audiences today.

The revival production of Carousel was directed by Jack O'Brien and starred Joshua Henry as Billy Bigelow and Jessie Mueller as Julie Jordan. Other cast included Renee Fleming as Nettie Fowler and Lindsay Mendez as Carrie Pipperidge. The orchestra was conducted by Andy Einhorn and the choreography was by Justin Peck.

One of the standout features of the production is the stunning set design by Santo Loquasto, which features a large revolving carousel that is used throughout the show. The costumes by Ann Roth are also noteworthy, with the women's dresses in particular capturing the nostalgia and romanticism of the musical's setting.

The performances by the cast are exceptional, with Joshua Henry delivering a powerful and nuanced portrayal of Billy Bigelow. He captures both the character's dark, brooding nature and his vulnerable, tender side, making his character's journey all the more moving. Jessie Mueller is equally impressive as Julie Jordan, imbuing her character with a sweet, innocent charm that makes her sympathetic and likable.

The ing cast also shines, with Renee Fleming giving a standout performance as Nettie Fowler, the no-nonsense but caring matriarch of the community. Lindsay Mendez is also excellent as Julie's best friend, Carrie Pipperidge, bringing a lively, effervescent energy to the role.

The musical numbers are beautifully performed, with the iconic songs "If I Loved You" and "You'll Never Walk Alone" delivering the emotional punch that they are known for. The ensemble numbers, such as the energetic "June is Bustin' Out All Over" and the hauntingly beautiful "Blow High, Blow Low" are also impressive, with the cast displaying incredible vocal range and skill.

Overall, Live From Lincoln Center: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel is a must-see for fans of musical theater and anyone who appreciates a great story. The production captures the nostalgic charm and emotional resonance of the original musical while also bringing a fresh perspective to the story. The talented cast, stunning set design, and beautiful music make for an unforgettable viewing experience that will stay with audiences long after the final notes are sung.