Carrie: The Musical

In the heart of community theatre, there lies a unique alchemy of passion, dedication, and collaboration. It’s not just about the performance; it’s about the collective effort, the shared enthusiasm, and the transformative power of storytelling. Phoenix Ensemble’s production of Carrie: The Musical embodies this spirit of community theatre in a gripping, raw, and emotionally charged performance that captivates from start to finish.

From the moment the lights dimmed, and the haunting strains of Michael Gore’s music filled the air, it was evident that this production was something special. Directed by Joshua Brandon, the staging was intimate yet powerful, drawing the audience into Carrie White’s world with a sense of immediacy and intimacy. Every scene crackled with energy, every note sung with conviction, every movement choreographed with precision.

At the heart of the production was Chelsea Sales’ mesmerizing portrayal of Carrie White. With a delicate balance of vulnerability and strength, Sales brought depth and complexity to the character, capturing the essence of a young woman struggling to find her place in a world that seems determined to reject her. Her performance was both heart-wrenching and empowering, eliciting empathy and admiration in equal measure.

Opposite Sales was Carly Quinn as Margaret White, Carrie’s deeply religious and controlling mother. Quinn brought a chilling intensity to the role, infusing Margaret with a fanatical fervour that bordered on madness. The dynamic between Sales and Quinn was electric, their scenes together fraught with tension and emotion, culminating in a climactic confrontation that left the audience on the edge of their seats.

Supporting Sales and Quinn were a talented ensemble of actors, each bringing their own unique energy and presence to the stage. Sophie Mason shone as Sue Snell, conveying both remorse and resilience in equal measure. Kyle Armstrong brought charm and sincerity to the role of Tommy Ross, while Storm Fraser was delightfully devilish as the conniving Chris Hargensen. Together, they created a rich tapestry of characters, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Carrie’s world.

Behind the scenes, the creative team worked tirelessly to bring the production to life. Musical Director Hayley Marsh’s arrangements were hauntingly beautiful, perfectly complementing the emotional depth of the story. Choreographer Victoria Lancaster’s dance numbers were exquisitely executed, adding an extra layer of visual flair to the production.

What truly set this production apart was the sense of community that permeated every aspect of the performance. From the cast to the crew to the audience members themselves, there was a palpable feeling of camaraderie and mutual support.

In the end, Phoenix Ensemble’s production of Carrie: The Musical is a testament to the power of community theatre. It’s not just about putting on a show; it’s about coming together as a community to create something beautiful and meaningful – which Phoenix Ensemble have always done.

Mel Newton

Photographs by B’rit Creative