‘Carrie! The Musical’ comes to Aspen

High school can be a tough place to fit in, but in Aspen High School’s latest musical, “Carrie,” the stakes are more than social.

Performances will begin at 7 p.m. Nov. 7 and 2 p.m. Nov. 8 at the Black Box Theatre. Directed by Caitlin Cremins, it’s produced as part of Theatre Aspen’s youth and education programming.

Based on Stephen King’s classic horror-drama novel, the rock musical follows a teenage outcast who wants to fit in until she discovers she has telekinetic powers. It features music by Michael Gore, lyrics by Dean Pitchford and a book by Lawrence D. Cohen.

“The exciting thing about the musical is that we’re able to delve into the inner lives of some of these characters that doesn’t necessarily happen with the book,” Cremins said, adding that this allows the audience to understand the characters in a different way. 

Cremins teaches theatre at Aspen High School and serves as co-director of education at Theatre Aspen. 

The set and costumes anchor the story in the 1970s, capturing the spirit of the 1976 film version starring Sissy Spacek and Piper Laurie.

Cremins said the story’s return to popular culture helped her choose “Carrie.” While Aspen High School’s production is set in the 1970s, Mike Flanagan’s 2026 TV mini-series brings the story to the present, where bullying can follow teens from school hallways to social media.

“We’re able to kind of compare our show versus what’s being done on television and trust our approach,” Cremins said.

Nayanna Smith leads the 17-student cast as Carrie White. Student Autumn Madsen, who recently moved to the local area from Wisconsin, will make her Aspen debut as Carrie’s mother, Margaret White.

“It’s an honor to take on such an emotionally complex role that is so relevant to any time period,” Smith said.

The cast also includes Natalie Seidl as Sue Snell, Ozley Choquette as Tommy Ross, Logan Novak as Chris Hargensen, Alfred Kaplinski as Billy Nolan and Brooklyn Nottingham as Ms. Gardner.

Along with the lead character having special powers, the story is centered on themes of bullying and isolation.

“It’s been a while since the school has done something scary,” Cremins said. “The students were so excited when we announced this title. It’s a little edgier. The students have really enjoyed leaning into the themes, so it’s been a challenge for them in that way.”

She added that, in contrast to the storyline, the cast has built a supportive community.

“These themes are universal themes and so prevalent in our lives. Everyone has had an experience where they felt left out. I think the cast has done a really good job reflecting on those themes and going in the opposite direction. They really take care of each other and have built a supportive cast environment and community. I’m really proud of them,” Cremins said.

“Carrie! The Musical” is recommended for high school students and older audiences, according to Cremins. 

Black Box Theatre is located at 235 High School Road. 

For more information and tickets, visit theatreaspen.org/education-events/carrie-the-musical.