About the Show
Carousel follows what happens when carny cad becomes a family man in late 19th century New England. In spite of the musical grandeur of this epic show, we will not allow the heavy and raw issues of suicide and domestic violence to be glossed over by such confections as “If I Loved You” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” Though “June is Bustin’ Out All Over,” you’ll have to wait until the tail end of July for the sweeping masterpiece!
History & Fun Facts
- Premiered on Broadway in 1945 and has been revived numerous times.
- Rodgers & Hammerstein considered it their personal favorite of all their works.
- Named the best musical of the 20th century by Time Magazine.
- Features one of the most famous songs in musical theatre, “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Meet the Artistic Director, Musical Director, & Conductor
C. Leonard Raybon is thrilled to begin his first appointment as Artistic Director for Summer Lyric Theatre. He is Associate Professor of Music and Director of Choirs at Tulane University. Leonard is the founder of Sacred Nine Project, where he engages with music, texts, and events from an earlier America in order to help shape a future one. Leonard’s “The Busy Bee,” a setting of an Isaac Watts song text for TB or SA, is published by Santa Barbara. Leonard also hosts the Sacred Nine Project Podcast. First production with SLT in 1996.
Meet the Director & Choreographer
Diane Lala brings new depth to Carousel, balancing its timeless romance with a fresh perspective. Her expertise in classic musical theatre ensures a visually and emotionally stunning production.
Diane is Professor Emerita of Musical Theatre at the University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music. At CCM, she has served as director/choreographer for such shows as 42nd Street, Carousel, Legally Blonde, and Singin’ in the Rain, to name a few. Many of her students have gone on to successful Broadway careers. Diane is a Certified Pilates Instructor and an associate member of SDC. She has directed and choreographed for SLT for the last 25 years. Her first production with SLT was in 1983.
Meet the Designers & Cast
Meet the designers and cast for Summer Lyric Theatre’s 2025 productions.
Why See Carousel at Tulane’s Summer Lyric Theatre?
- New Orleans’ Cornerstone of Performing Arts – Summer Lyric Theatre presents Carousel with the grandeur and scale it deserves, continuing a tradition of excellence.
- Renowned Singers’ Theatre – Featuring some of the finest voices in New Orleans, Carousel is brought to life with breathtaking vocal performances.
- The Only Full-Orchestration Musical Theatre in the Region – Experience the full depth of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s sweeping score performed by a live orchestra.
- A Legacy of Excellence Since the 1960s – Summer Lyric Theatre remains dedicated to preserving and elevating Broadway classics.
- Exceptional Performances in a World-Class Acoustic Venue – Dixon Hall’s acoustics allow every note and emotion to be fully realized.
Get Early Access – Join the Waitlist Now by Phone: 504.865.5269
Who Should See This Show?
Carousel is perfect for:
- Families and audiences who love classic Broadway musicals.
- Fans of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s sweeping melodies and powerful storytelling.
- Anyone who enjoys deeply emotional and visually stunning productions.
Addressing the Themes of Carousel
Carousel contains themes of domestic violence. If you or someone you know is facing this issue, please take one of the New Orleans Family Justice Center’s flyers that can be found on music stands in the lobby. Our show also depicts suicide. If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal ideation, please call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
For help in navigating the difficult themes in Carousel for our cast and audience, we would like to thank:
Julia Broussard, Assistant Provost of Title IX Compliance and Education
Jenny Mercein, Associate Professor of Theatre
Ana Sánchez-Rojo, Associate Professor of Music
Box Office & Ticket Information
Show Dates: July 31 – August 3, 2025
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