Carousel Theatre - History and Productions

History and Productions

Carousel was founded in 1974 by Elizabeth Ball, who served as its artistic director until 2001, when she stepped down and was replaced by Carole Higgins. In its early years, Carousel garnered attention for its adaptations of Shakespeare in modern dress. Later, it shifted its focus to adaptations of classical stories and new works by Canadian playwrights. Carousel first mounted its productions in Vancouver playhouses such as the Arts Club Theatre Company’s old Seymour Street theatre and the Vancouver East Cultural Centre. In about 1993, it relocated to Granville Island, where it has administrative offices and two rehearsal halls; as well, it is across the street from the Waterfront Theatre, where it mounts many of its productions.

Carousel has mounted premieres of several productions, some of which it had commissioned and developed. Notable Canadian plays that premiered at Carousel Theatre include A Christmas Carol - The Musical by Mavor Moore (in 1998), Dying to be Thin by Linda A. Carson (in 1992), and Basically Good Kids by Mark Leiren-Young (in 1993). Carousel also mounted an original production of Pierre Berton's fable The Secret World of Og, adapted under commission by Governor General's Award-winning playwright Kevin Kerr. Other Carousel productions have included Seussical and Kim Selody's adaptation of The Hobbit.

Many notable Canadian theatre artists, including Roy Surette, Teryl Rothery, and Anna Cummer have worked for Carousel Theatre in the decades since it was founded.