Oklahoma

I was warmly welcomed at Front of House and had the unexpected pleasure of meeting my ex Assistant Representative who was visiting the society for the show week.

I am always most impressed by the colourful and simple sets designed and constructed by the society to fit a difficult and temporary stage erected for the production. This set comprising Laurey’s Farmhouse on one side and The Smoke House on the other was no exception. The two centre panels were hinged and swivelled easily to make the scene changes leaving the side panels showing scenes of corn plants, a water tower and a wind turbine. Well done! There were a few props, including hay bales but there was little room for much. The original stage at one end of the hall showed a magnificent sunset over cornfields scene. Sound and projection throughout was impressive and there were a few sound effects eg birdsong, gun shots. The lighting was appropriate and enhancing.

The costumes were most attractive and colourful and were relevant to the early 1900s and many were made by talented Zoe Stephens.

It was good to see some new and talented younger members in the cast and the production was generally well cast. There was a large chorus of friends, farmers and cowboys with a few having small speaking roles. There was good movement around the small stage and some dance routines which tended to be fairly routine due to the stage. Once again the music was provided by the inimitable pianist Joe Richardson whose ability to play for an entire production never ceases to amaze me. He was ably assisted by Dan Edwards on percussion.

The principals all displayed very good acting skills and impressive vocal ranges. Des Newell took the major role of the cowboy Curly complete with swagger and sometimes arrogance in his persistent pursuit of Laurey. He had a good voice stronger on some numbers than others and led the chorus numbers capably. Laurey was played extremely well by Natasha Bennett who displayed both her independence and forthright manner and her vulnerability when confronted by fear or uncertainty. What great facial expressions she showed including much rolling of her eyes. She had a wide ranging and powerful voice and did particularly well in the duets with Curly where they complimented each other so well. Nancy Hughes was well cast as the indomitable Aunt Eller, Forthright and tough, by projecting her great personality she had the respect of both farmers and cowboys.

Martin Lucas played a strong role as Will Parker, bouncy, energetic (and a good dancer!),romantic and maybe a little naive. Ed Gerrie gave a great characterisation of Jud Fry a hired farm hand who was an inveterate loner, threatening and intimidating to the community.

Clare Almond was flirty and vivacious as Ado Annie Carnes constantly seeking male attention. I really enjoyed watching Antony Tregenna as Ali Hakim a travelling pedlar with an eye for the ladies. Niche roles were played by Sara Nice as Gertie Cummings and Phil Stephens as Andrew Carnes.

This was a fast moving production featuring strong vocal performances and many favourite songs. All very well directed and strongly supported by Hilary Brunning.

This production owes much to new Director Fiona Morris making her debut in the role. Many congratulations to her for bringing her skills and creativity to the stage to produce this well known musical which the near capacity audience really enjoyed.

Well done everyone.

 

 

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.