Oklahoma! UK Tour Review

They don’t make them quite like this any more! ‘Oklahoma!’ is Rodgers and Hammerstein’s first ever Musical, standing the test of time on stage since its premiere in 1943. Opening with the rousing “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'”, we find ourselves in a much simpler time, set against the farmland backdrop of Oklahoma where this love story unfolds. Ashley Day (pictured above) who is fresh out of the West End production of ‘The Book of Mormon‘ is the definition of a ‘triple-threat’ performer – with equally strong vocals, acting and dance ability.

Having never seen or heard much of ‘Oklahoma!’ previously (with the exception of three musical numbers) I enjoyed these soaring songs by Rodgers and Hammerstein, who have undoubtedly written some of the world’s most loved musicals. Both orchestra and the cast delivered the songs with gutso and highlights included “The Farmer and the Cowman“, “People Will Say We’re in Love” and the brilliant title song “Oklahoma!”. Two of the best performances of the night however belong to Lucy May Barker (Ado Annie) who gave an exceptional performance of “I Cain’t Say No” and Nic Greenshield (Jud) blasting out the haunting and powerful “Lonely Room”. Having previously seen Barker in the superb revival of ‘Sweeney Todd‘ her performance as Ado Annie highlighted her incredible diversity as a performer.

(Lucy May Barker and Gary Wilmot)

Gary Wilmot appears as the peddler Ali Hakim, providing some comic moments in his cameo-esque role and Belinda Lang is charming as wise old Aunt Eller. Rachel Kavanaugh’s direction is good and compliments Drew McOnie’s affective high energy choreography, one of the production’s most exciting moments being the “Dream Ballet” sequence. The only downfall of the show is the plot, which is either too simple or well constructed for the most part but with a rushed final 20 minutes – I can’t decide! One must remember however that this isn’t ‘Les Misérables’ and is a basic old-fashioned love story accompanied by lush, catchy songs.

Theatre goers young and old will enjoy this fun and energetic Country and Western Musical which continues at the Wolverhampton Grand until Saturday 7th March!

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Tickets: http://www.grandtheatre.co.uk/whats-on/musicals/oklahoma#booking/

(The Company)