Oklahoma

The timeless musical Oklahoma will always appeal to audiences and I know that the audience, though small, thoroughly enjoyed themselves on the evening I attended.

The outstanding score was played with skill by an effective orchestra under the expert baton of MD Peter Farrell. Never to loud it was just punchy enough to get our feet tapping in the company numbers. Unfortunately there were a few issues with timing from some of the principals but they quickly got back on track and finished the number confidently.

The wealth of characters were all well cast and characterized in their roles effectively making Oklahoma interesting from start to finish.

Like many, I never tire of this iconic musical no matter how many times I see it!

Simon Latter, excellent as Curly gave a confident performance his strong voice sealing success as soon as he sang the opening bars and with Louise Bateman as Laurie they were perfectly matched.

Maureen Davies was superb as a feisty Aunt Eller, bringing light and shade to every scene, lifting it to new heights and demonstrating what an experienced actress she is.

Spirited and with spot on comedy delivery, Tammy Wall was a great Ado Annie. This performance was packed full of energy and I enjoyed it tremendously. Well done.

Other fine performances were given by Barny Shergold as Ali Hackim and the talented Tim Spink as Will Parker. Elle-Louise Berrie made a perfect Gertie Cummings getting that terrible laugh just right.

Ray Beckman was perfect as Andrew Carnes. Excellent direction here proving that less is more and good timing makes casual perfection!

Jud Fry was brilliantly played by accomplished actor Peter Sayers giving a quiet menace until his powerful and explosive solo song. I would have liked him to look a lot dirtier until the auction scene. Personal choice but he still came over scary.

The small ensemble worked hard and made an excellent sound. I particularly enjoyed The Farmer and The Cowman. It was full of smiling faces and lots of energy.

Choreography was appropriate for the company and cleverly executed so that everyone appeared to achieve what they set out to do.

Costumes on the whole were suitable for the era but Laurey’s cut off jeans seemed somewhat out of place. Perhaps dungarees would have been better.

Fight sequences were effective and well designed.

The set, though minimalistic, worked well giving the company plenty of space for the dance numbers.

Oklahoma is one of my favorite shows and I cannot help but enjoy myself whenever I go to review it. Thank you for an enjoyable evening and I look forward to being invited again in the future.

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