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Former Hilltopper to perform in musical at Palace Theatre
(by Sean Lehosit, Westside Editor - January 18, 2012)
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| CARRIER |
Jessica Carrier became hooked on theater as a fourth grader when her mother took her to audition with the Hilltop Community Theatre.
While attending Bishop Ready High School, Carrier auditioned for every production, participating in a total of 10 by senior year.
Her love for theater followed her to Ohio Dominican University. After graduation she moved to Canal Winchester and now teaches ecology and genetics at Canal Winchester High School. Carrier also instructs a marine biology class and helps assistant direct the school’s spring musical each year.
I spoke with Carrier about her upcoming lead role in “Seussical the Musical,” which will be performed at the Palace Theatre on March 2-4.
Sean Lehosit: When did you realize you loved musicals?
Jessica Carrier: When I was growing up, we would spend a lot of time at my grandma’s house. We would watch a lot of the old classic musicals like “White Christmas” or “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.” I think it was then that I fell in love with the musical.
SL: Is it challenging to balance rehearsal time with teaching and lesson plans?
JC: I performed with Pleasure Guild four years ago when they did “Beauty and the Beast.” Since then I have done other shows with other theatre companies around central Ohio. Being busy makes me more productive. If I am not busy, I get lazy. Knowing I have rehearsal in the evening motivates me to grade papers and plan lessons. I am also able to do those things during parts when I am not on stage.
SL: What character are you playing and what’s the musical about?
JC: I play Mayzie La Bird, the flashy and sassy bird who wants to have a good time. She is a powerhouse who enjoys nothing more than being in the spotlight. However, her flighty ways often leave her bored and wanting more. Ultimately the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community emerge triumphant in a story that makes you laugh and cry. The show teaches the audience about the power of thought and self-confidence.
SL: What might audience members enjoy most about this production?
JC: This musical has lots of singing and any spoken parts are told in the classic and whimsical way of Dr. Seuss. Big cast dance numbers and exciting surprises await with every scene. This show will offer bright colors, beautiful sets, exciting costumes and fantastic talent. We are so lucky to have a great cast of characters. Families will especially like the great message that the show delivers for children.
SL: What else should readers know about this production?
JC: One of the most important reasons to come see the show is the wonderful cause it supports. The production is put on by Pleasure Guild (PG) of Nationwide’s Children’s Hospital. Founded in 1908, PG is comprised of 65 women who volunteer and fundraise for the Children’s Hospital’s Hospice and Palliative Care Program. This program provides care for children whom a cure is beyond reach. They raise more than $200,000 for the program per year. Their spring musical productions at the palace theatre are a huge part of that. All proceeds from the show go directly to the hospital program. “Seussical the Musical” will be its 55th production.
"Seussical the Musical" will open on Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Performances will be March 2 at 7 p.m., March 3 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and March 4 at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $15 and all proceeds benefit Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Individuals can purchase tickets at the CAPA Ticket Office, 39 E. State St. or through Ticketmaster.
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