The 1947 Rodgers and Hammerstein classic Oklahoma! has been brought back to life on the stage at the Paper Mill Playhouse. A delightful mix of drama and humor, this is one show you won’t want to miss.
Oklahoma! is the heartwarming story of Laurey and Curly, two young people who fall in love on the frontier. There are many fun-loving, memorable characters including Ado Annie who "Cain’t Say No" and Will Parker who has just gotten back from "Kansas City."
Even though this show has been around for over 60 years, the director, James Brennan, and choreographer, Peggy Hickley, give it a fresh edge. Brennan has made transitions of emotion from joking around at the hoe down to utter terror with an unexpected wedding guest completely flawless. Hickley does a superb job of creating exciting dance numbers, especially in "The Farmer and the Cowman" and the dream sequence. Anthony Ward’s set is fantastic and uses the space well.
Adam Monley has a beautiful voice and brings Curly’s ruggedness onto the stage. He opens the show with "Oh What A Beautiful Mornin’" making the audience crave more. He is able to make the audience laugh to tears in his duet with Jud, "Poor Jud Is Daid." Brynn O’Malley displays the inner-conflicts of Laurey with an organic performance. She delivers Laurey’s spunk and dry humor perfectly. Her pleasant voice is especially noticeable in her duet with Curly, "People Will Say We’re in Love."
While the leads are wonderful, it is the supporting cast that steals the show. Megan Sikora’s Ado Annie is absolutely hysterical. Her energy is incredible, she lights up the room every time she is on stage. Andrew Varela puts a sympathetic light on Jud Fry that is refreshing. His rendition of "Lonely Room" is one of the highlights of the show. Brian Sears brings fun-loving Will Parker to life with his great energy. Jonathan Harker’s Ali Hakim is brilliant. He delivers every line just as it was meant to be said.
Overall, for a night of tears, laughter, and family fun, Oklahoma! is sure to be a hit.
Performances at the Paper Mill Playhouse run through October 10. For tickets/more information, call 973-376-4343 or go to www.PaperMill.org.