28 April 2003
Oxford Operatic Society returns to The Oxford Playhouse from 12 – 17 May with its latest production, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s OKLAHOMA
Brimming with well-known songs, fast moving, funny dialogue and characters that are full of life, OKLAHOMA! has been a firm favourite with British audiences since it first opened in London in 1947.
The show takes us back to the newly-conquered Indian territory of the American West at the turn of the 20th century, a place where rivalry is strong between the farmers and the cowboys. Against this backdrop is set the story of Laurey and the two rivals for her affections, Curly, a cowboy and Jud Fry, the hired farmhand. Running parallel is the story of Ado Annie and her two suitors, Will Parker and the peddler Ali Hakim.
An uplifting family show, the many popular songs include: Oh what a beautiful morning, The surrey with the fringe on top, Kansas City, I can't say no, People will say we're in love and the show stopping finale Oklahoma!
Cast members include both Oxford Operatic regulars and some newcomers to the society. Guy Brigg, a local primary school teacher, takes the role of Curly with Sarah Leatherbarrow as Laurey (last seen as Cunégonde in CANDIDE). Dave Crewe, who has just finished directing the Musical Youth Company of Oxford in ME AND MY GIRL, appears as Will Parker with Nicola Ball in her first principal role with the society as the irrepressible Ado Annie.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Performances:
Eves 7.30pm, Sat Mat 2.30pm
Press Night: Monday 12 May, 7.30pm
Tickets: £9.50 - £15
Box Office: 01865 305305
Music by Richard Rodgers
Book & Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II
For further information please contact pressoffice@oxfordoperatic.co.uk