Oklahoma

Having not seen Oklahoma for some time I must begin by saying what a pleasure it was to renew my acquaintance with it – and what a great job you made of it in your new venue.  The story needs no introduction from me – so I will not attempt one – but it seems to me that with some wonderful toe-tapping tunes what you really need is a cast with lots of energy and enthusiasm and lots of big smiles just to bring the whole thing to life – and you did that in spades!!

It does take a few minutes to get used to a ‘hidden orchestra’ with apparently no-one ‘waving a stick’ but once over that small hurdle the orchestra was very good – everyone was in time and on time and making a great sound.   I have to say that on a personal note the orchestra was over microphoned for me which meant that the singers mikes had to be turned up so loud that on occasions the sheer volume was distorting some of the sound – which was a real pity because the ‘source’ sound was very good.

Costumes were excellent – everyone looked the part – bright and colourful (apart from Jud of course) for the most part shoes were in keeping.    Congratulations to the choreographer movement was excellent never too much and perhaps more importantly, within the capabilities of everyone on the stage.  (I can’t begin to imagine how many times you had to rehearse those numbers – but it paid off – they looked great).

Congratulations also to the director – there were some lovely original touches whilst retaining a totally believable atmosphere and mix of characters, and bringing out the darker side.

Many congratulations to the cast – principals and chorus alike all looked confident and comfortable and created some really believable stage relationships.  The whole cast had some great facial expressions and everyone just looked as if they were really enjoying themselves – so the audience did as well.  As already mention singing and movement was good – the darker side was played well and realistically – with expressions to match.  What more can I say – I thoroughly enjoyed the show –the whole thing.

Very many thanks for inviting me and for your kind and generous hospitality – I, and from what bits I heard from other members of the audience, all thoroughly enjoyed it – Thank-you so much!

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.