THE Theatre Royal Winchester was treated to Winchester Operatic Society’s second production of Carousel this evening, Tuesday November 11.

The near full house was treated to a lively show full of fun, powerful and moving songs from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s well loved musical.

Carousel, directed by John Barlow, tells a darker tale than some – the bittersweet romance between the young, innocent mill-girl Julie Jordan (Kerry-Jayne Lilly) and the brutish fairground barker Billy Bigelow (Iain Steel) is tinged with tragedy. Many of the songs, choruses and dance sequences are modern classics – If I loved you, June is bustin’ out all over, When the children are asleep to name but three – and of course: You’ll never walk alone.

Kerry-Jayne Lilly gave a mesmerising performance as strong willed Julie Jordan. Her clear, strong voice was full of emotion and carried brilliantly really sharing the feelings of the character with the audience.

Equally, Iain Steel was excellent as diamond in the rough Billy Bigelow and portrayed his character with charm and empathy.

Not to be left out was sterling performance of Frances Stirrup as the adorable, simple and funny Carrie Pipperidge.

Being a Carousel virgin I felt at times the plot jumped about a little too much for me at times, but the whole production was executed with precision, professionalism, and most important of all, a sense of fun.

Winchester Operatic Society’s production of Carousel runs at the Theatre Royal Winchester until Saturday 15 November. However, as soon as this show is over WOS are gearing up for their summer show, which for 2009 will be Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Mikado.

An information evening for people interested in becoming involved in this production will be held on Wednesday November 26 at Western School at 7.30pm.

For more information call production secretary Jacqui Beckingham on 01962 714287.

To buy tickets for Carousel contact the Theatre Royal Winchester box office on 01962 840440.