The Hill School's Ellis Theatre Guild presents Carrie as their 2025 winter production. Four performances will be held in the Center For The Arts Theatre on Friday, February 28 at 7:15 p.m.; Saturday, March 1 at 1 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.; and Sunday, March 2 at 1 p.m. Tickets are free and open to the public and can be reserved HERE. Please note: Due to mature themes and some violence, this show is rated PG-13.

Based on the psychic horror novel by Stephen King, Carrie tells the story of a small-town high school who girl discovers she has telekinetic powers and uses them to get back at her bullying high school classmates and her tyrannical mother. The show features music by Michael Gore, lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and a book by original screenwriter Lawrence D. Cohen. https://playbill.com/article/look-back-at-the-original-production-of-carrie

At its heart, Carrie is an exploration of bullying, a topic that resonates deeply with audiences of all ages. While the subject is sensitive, the production aims to spark conversations that are necessary. Director and Choreographer Kat Ross Kline has crafted a vision that balances the story’s raw emotion with moments of hope.

The cast comprises a combination of seasoned theatre students along with newcomers to Hill. Abby Walsh '26 stars as Carrie White, delivering a performance that promises to be both heartbreaking and empowering. Payton Barth '26 takes on the role of Sue Snell, while Harry Whaley '25 portrays Tommy Ross. The cast is rounded out by performances from Juliana Duarte '27 as Chris Hargensen, and Andrew Ward '25 as Billy Nolan. Adding a unique touch to the production, guest artist Melissa Connell will play the complex role of Carrie’s mom, Margaret White.

The ensemble plays a pivotal role in this production, driving the story forward with powerful dramatic moments. Featured ensemble members include Abby Burkart '27, Alexa Creciun '26, Caroline Fung '27, Sienna Licata '25, and Jaydon Robinson '28. The full cast list can be viewed below.

Dance takes center stage in Carrie, with numerous numbers that add energy and vibrancy to the story. The live orchestra, led by skilled musicians, will provide an immersive musical experience. Meanwhile, on-stage fight scenes, carefully choreographed by Certified Stage Combat Instructor Terri McEntyre, will captivate the audience with their intensity.

Audiences can expect a visually stunning experience, thanks to the integration of LED light walls, fog machines, and 20-foot beams that will transform the stage into a multi-dimensional world. Adding to the production are spark machines that will heighten the intensity of key moments. This use of technology is guided by the remarkable team of Production Designer Bobby Goodrich and Technical Director Peter Gorneault, with Micha Roemmich as the Lighting Programmer.

This production is the result of a collaborative effort by all members of the exceptional Hill Theatre creative team. Kristen VonWachenfeldt serves as both Stage and Production Manager, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Ryk Lewis’s sound design will bring the eerie and emotional world of Carrie to life, while the surprises throughout the show promise to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

With its vivid effects, heartfelt performances, and a story that resonates to all, the Ellis Theatre Guild’s production of Carrie is an event you don’t want to miss.

CAST

Carrie White: Abby Walsh '26

Sue Snell: Payton Barth '26

Tommy Ross: Harry Whaley '25

Chris Hargensen: Juliana Duarte '27

Billy Nolan: Andrew Ward '25

Miss Gardner: Claire Bressi '26 

Norma: Maren Sheronas '28

Frieda: Stella Wu '27

Helen: Martina Chai '27 

George: Adam Yao '26

Stokes: Cayden Cubbin '25

Freddy: Deric Choi '26

Margret White: Melissa Connell *guest artist

CORE ENSEMBLE

Abby Burkart '27

Alexa Creciun '26

Caroline Fung '27

Sienna Licata '25

Jaydon Robinson '28