Garland Civic Theatre’s production of Carnival! has it all. There’s a cast full of great actors, singers and dancers and amazing choreography by Nick Leos and Patty Granville. The production also boasts exciting aerial performances, fun magic tricks, juggling and meaningful puppet performances. In addition, audiences can’t miss the beautiful costumes by Kerra Sims.
Donnamarie Knight and Brancon Borick, who portray Lili and Paul, have tremendous acting and vocal talent. The same is true of Whitney Golin and Jeremy Duncan, who play The Incomparable Rosalie and Jacquot. Golin captures the tough outward personality of Rosalie, and at the same time, her vulnerability.
The small theater at the Granville Arts Center is a naturally intimate venue. However, the set design enhanced that by making it possible for the actors to interact more with the audience. The actors also used the center aisle several times which further involved the audience.
Carnival! is by Bob Merrill, Michael Stewart, Helen Deutsch and Gower Champion. The musical is based on the 1953 film Lili.
This show is special to Granville because Buff Shurr starred in the original Broadway production in the 1960s. Shurr helped Granville start the Garland Summer Musicals in the 1980s. He consulted on this latest production as well.
To make it more special, Shurr turned 95 during opening week, and the Garland Civic Theatre dedicated the show to him and honored him at a reception on opening night.
Performances are at Granville Arts Center, 300 North Fifth Street in downtown Garland. The show runs through Sept. 25. Show times are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets cost $22 and can be purchased at the box office (972-205-2790) or online at garlandcivic.org. Special ticket pricing is available for groups and students.
About Garland Civic Theatre
Garland Civic Theatre is proud to be the oldest community theater in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. For 55 years, Garland Civic Theatre has provided high quality theatrical programs to educate, to entertain and to enrich the lives of its community. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit garlandcivic.org or call the box office at 972-205-2790.