OKLAHOMA

This show is challenging for any Company to undertake and congratulations must go to the creative team, Jenny Daniels, Director Lisa Carolan, M.D. and Choreographer and Assistant Choreographer Joanne Hindle for presenting an excellent Production. I have never seen a Youth performance of “Oklahoma“, one of my favourite shows and I was captivated from beginning to end.

This very young cast showed confidence and enthusiasm from the opening number “ Oh What a Beautiful Morning “ until the final rousing rendition of the “Oklahoma Chorus”.  The capacity audience certainly appreciated the high standard of performance. The dialogue is difficult for youngsters to interpret but the principals and ensemble appeared to have mastered the characters’ thoughts and feelings. David Clarkson, Conductor/Keyboard and his young musicians played sensitively and at just the correct level bearing in mind the young voices.

The minimal set was appropriate, especially Jud’s Smoke House and there was great use made of exits and entrances from the Auditorium.

The principal characters are to be congratulated on their confident and assured performances, only occasionally was the dialogue hurried making it difficult for the members of the audience to hear what was said.Abbie Gresty as Aunt Eller showed a maturity far beyond her years and was, for me, the highlight of the show. Her performance was outstanding in every respect and I looked forward to her every appearance. Declan Wilkinson as Curly captured the essence of the character whilst Sam Hackett, as Jud Fry gave an excellent interpretation of the mentally disturbed villain of the piece. Adam Walker, Ali Hakim and Flo Maskery as Ado Annie Carnes provided the comedy of the show. Their stage presence was excellent and they both have great comedy timing. There was another outstanding cameo role from Freddie Howson as Andrew Carnes.

The costumes and accessories were appropriate for the era and played an important part in this particular production. I was very impressed by the fight scenes, which were so well choreographed and with the confident use of the gun,

The “ Dream Sequence” was very emotional with innovative choreography and good lighting effects. Projection and Diction were good especially maintaining their American accents.Singing, Dancing and Acting from the entire cast was outstanding and all on stage appeared to be enjoying every moment.

It is encouraging to see the high standards being set by these young actors and seeing them grow in confidence and maturity. It all bodes well for the future. Many thanks for you warm welcome to my wife and myself.

 

 

 

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