Oklahoma!

Oklahoma! is a classical musical set in the mid-west of America in the early 1900’s telling the story of rivalries and love triangles and the high spirited friction between the farmers and the cowmen. The songs in the show are some of the best known and loved of any musical so audience expectation is very high. The opening number ‘Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’’ was indeed beautifully sung by Andrew Quinn and you knew that all the subsequent songs to be sung by him would be of the same high standard. His wonderful, powerful singing voice was perfect for the role of Curley and equalled by his confident, quality acting. His duets with Laurey were superb as was ‘Pore Jud is Daid’, with Jud Fry. Helen Perry was delightful as Laurey portraying all the varying emotions perfectly. She has a lovely pure, clear singing voice and can dance exquisitely as well! Rachel Clines was charming, flirtacious and extremely funny as the fickle Ado Annie Carnes. Her endition of ‘I Cain’t say No’ was terrific. Yvonne Taylor was in her element as Aunt Eller. She was energetic, witty and just so convincing as was Anthony Varney as Andrew Carnes. It was obvious that Andrew Buxton had great fun playing Will Parker his exuberant performance was so impressive as were his lively, acrobatic dance routines, rope twirling and rope tricks. David Orange gave a creditable portrayal as Ali Hakim his execution of ‘It’s a Scandal’ was great and Alex Davidson’s high pitched laugh was perfect for the role of Gertie Cummings. Giving an absolutely standout performance for me, was Phil Stanley as Jud. His disturbingly effective portrayal of this tortured man was brilliant, it was a very powerful and compelling performance. The choreography and its excellent execution by principals and the company was vibrant and lively as were the big chorus numbers and the various fight scenes were so realistically enacted. Good costumes (apart from the faux pas with ‘underwear’ of the Can Can dancers), with excellent sets and lighting, just a few issues with sound balance, all added together to produce a first-rate and thoroughly enjoyable show. There was definitely a ‘bright golden haze’ in the Derby Theatre and “I’m just sayin’ you all did fine with Oklahoma - O.K.”

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