Marco the Magnificent (Russ Crum) charms Lili in this early scene from “Carnival!”
Theatre-at-Tusculum will bring the splendor, magic and romance of “Carnival!” to the stage in November.
The musical, which tells the romantic and heartwarming story of the orphan Lili in the colorful, exciting world of a traveling carnival, will be performed at 7 p.m. Nov. 4-5 and 11-12 and at 2 p.m. on Nov. 6 and 13 in the auditorium of the Annie Hogan Byrd Fine Arts Building on the Tusculum College campus.
A talented cast of 81 brings the tale of Lili to life as she joins a traveling carnival and finds herself surrounded by a company of fantastically colorful personalities, such as Paul, the handsome, but bitter puppeteer; the dynamic magician Marco the Magnificent; kind Jacquot, Paul’s patient partner, and the incomparable and fiery Roalie. They are surrounded by a kaleidoscope of carnival characters and creatures, clowns, gypsies, mystics and tumblers and dancers, who are all manipulated by the artful ringmaster B. F. Shlegel.
Adding to the carnival atmosphere are a charming unicorn, played by a miniature horse named Junebug, an adorable dancing dog, some other animal surprises and four charming and hilarious puppets, creations of Greeneville artist Judith Plucker.
Guest artist and renowned vocalist Russ Crum has been providing his expertise to the cast that includes some local favorites and some newcomers. Crum is portraying Marco; golden-throated Sterling Bean is taking on the role of Paul; Emily Bryant, who many will remember in her role as Dorothy in the 2008 production of the “Wizard of Oz,” portrays Lili, and exciting newcomer Audrey Shoemaker has taken on the role of Rosalie. Theatre-at-Tusculum favorites Tom Sizemore and Seth Holt return as Jacquot and B.F. Shlegel, respectively.
This musical will also feature a breathtaking dance performance. Lori Ann Sparks, creative director of Central Ballet Theatre of Greeneville, and the show’s choreographer Kim Berry will be performing a dramatic and beautiful routine using on aerial silks.
Theatre-at-Tusculum’s production staff has been weaving its magic to make the world of the carnival come to life on stage. Costume Director Barbara Holt is using every bit of glitter and glitz from the Arts Outreach Costume Shop to create eye-catching, colorful costumes with her army of volunteers. A special team of volunteers will transform the Carnival players with “Cirque du Paris” face paints. Music Director Angie Clendenon, assisted this year by Tusculum student Josh Davis, has assembled a professional pit orchestra, and Technical Director Frank Mengel has designed a colorful set. Gifted choreographer Kim Berry rounds out the team and a host of dedicated volunteers drill, hammer, sew, paint, pin, glue and prompt to ensure the show’s success.
Director Marilyn duBrisk and Arts Outreach Coordinator Jennifer Hollowell are expecting large audiences, so early ticket reservations are encouraged. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors 60 and over and $5 for children 12 and under. Reservations can be made by calling 423-798-1620 or by emailing jhollowell@tusculum.edu.