Oklahoma!

HOP celebrates its 90th year this year – and what a wonderful production of “Oklahoma” to set the scene for the celebrations.

This company have a very talented director & choreographer in Michael A Kirkby, and combined with the excellent musical direction from Oliver Longstaff this was a superb show throughout.

There was a very strong and talented principal team led by Daniel Flynn as Curly McLain (it was so nice to see his hair live up to his characters name!) who gave a very confident performance partnered with Molli Targett as Laurey Williams.  Molli has the most beautiful, effortless singing voice, and she was a delight to listen to in all her musical numbers.  Their duet  People Will Say We’re In Love” was the highlight of the show.

Jason Shaw was very appealing as Will Parker and Ruth Graham gave a superb all round performance as Ado Annie.  They worked brilliantly together, and I was exhausted watching their dance routines – there was so much energy!

Craig Kirby as Jud Fry made his interpretation of this lone man so tormented and menacing; both songs ”Pore Jud is Daid” and ”Lonely Room” were deeply touching and very poignant, sung with a beautiful haunting voice.

Christine Littlewood and Chris Kemp gave great character performances as Aunt Eller and Ali Hakim, along with Natalie Page and Simon Berger as Gertie Cummings and Andrew Carnes.

The balance between the superb orchestra and chorus was perfect.  The chorus provided stunning vocal support – particularly during the opening of the show, and their harmony singing is certainly a joy to listen to.

The choreography and dancing were excellent – there was so much energy throughout the production from everyone on stage.  The ballet was outstanding especially as it was performed using the actual cast principals.

The superb set (Stage Director – Carolyn Roper), props and lighting supported by the very efficient stage crew added enjoyment to all who watched the show.  The scene changes were swift and professionally executed.

The colourful costumes (Ian Stead Theatrical Costumier) were excellent, with everyone having something that fitted and the hair and wigs accessorised everything perfectly.

Congratulations HOP on celebrating 90 glorious years.  Here’s to the next 90!
 

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