Oklahoma!

Musicals may come and go but Oklahoma! is definitely one that has stood the test of time. Just occasionally it takes a back seat before returning as fresh as if it had never gone away, ready to be embraced by a whole new generation of musical theatre enthusiasts, be they on stage or in the audience.

BSMTC had gathered together a very talented cast for this production and from the opening scene to the rousing finale, this was a show to brighten even the dullest of autumn days. I defy anyone to say they didn’t leave the theatre with a smile on their face and a song in their heart.

Under MD Sarah Sykes the company produced some terrific musical moments, bringing Rodgers and Hammerstein’s wonderfully uplifting score to life.

Matthew Juggins as Curly gave a relaxed, confident performance.  As soon as he went into the opening number, “Oh What a Beautiful Mornin’” we knew the bar had been set high.  Alex Outlaw, also an accomplished singer and actor made an excellent Laurey.  This was a good pairing.

Rebecca Faulkner was just great as Ado Annie, the girl who…Can’t Say No. Her good comic delivery was spot on.  Her long suffering young man, Will Parker was well played by Jack Stevens.

Mike Sykes was on top form as Ali Hakim and really got the audience on side.  Not sure about the Persian accent but we won’t dwell on that. His carefree lifestyle comes to an end courtesy of Gertie, well played by Charlotte Crosby.

A very nice portrayal of Aunt Eller by Charlotte Pritchard, and Andrew was well played by James Jeffries

The show has a dark side in the character of Jud Fry and this was very well captured by Darrell Williams. His solo “Lonely Room” was powerfully sung.

Elsa Springham is to be congratulated on her choreography, the dream scene was especially well done and I literally did not see anyone put a foot wrong. In fact all the chorus numbers were absolutely great with the cast obviously enjoying every moment.

The set was just right, allowing plenty of room for the rousing chorus numbers but still managing to provide a more intimate setting when required. Most importantly it avoided the need for long scene changes.

Good direction is key to the success of any production and the society is fortunate to have secured the services of David James with whom I had the pleasure of talking before the performance.

This was a terrific show.  My congratulations to everyone involved and thank you for inviting me.

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