by David Nathan
2/26/1988

Carrie has more problems. It goes to Broadway straight from Stratford and, I would guess, will disappear shortly afterwards. It is based on Stephen King's novel about a girl who uses occult powers to destroy the school companions who bait her because she is the dowdy daughter of a religious fanatic who has not told her about menstruation.

I culled this information from well-informed sources, cryptic programme notes and hints from friendly contacts, not from Lawrence D. Cohen's book, Dean Pitchford's lyrics (largely inaudible) or from Terry Hands' series of disconnected production numbers which, if filmed, could make splendid videos if only Michael Gore's music -- quick with shrieks or slow with moans -- merited them.

There is no humour, no human warmth and even the magic lacks magic.

Linzi Hateley puts her heart into playing Carrie and the divine Barabra Cook, as the mother, looks as if she wishes the part had gone to Shirley Jones.