Did Shirley Jones do her own singing in Carousel?

Shirley Mae Jones is an American actress and singer who spent six decades in show business within which she starred as wholesome characters in a number of musical films, such as Oklahoma! (1955), Carousel (1956), and The Music Man (1962).

Jones who had a musical voice would have done her own singing in the Carousel.

However, at the time she was unavailable and the singing was done by Claramae Turner, an operatic contralto best remembered for her celebrated rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone”.

Tuner died May 18 in Santa Rosa, Calif at age 92.

Born on March 31, 1934, Jones’ first audition was for an open bi-weekly casting call held by John Fearnley, casting director for Rodgers and Hammerstein and their various musicals.

At the time, Jones had never heard of Rodgers and Hammerstein.

Fearnley was so impressed with her performance and he ran across the street to fetch Richard Rodgers, who was rehearsing with an orchestra for an upcoming musical.

Rodgers then called Oscar Hammerstein at home and he was also impressed with Jones when he saw her perform.

She became the first and only singer to be put under personal contract with the songwriters.