How about a visit to Oklahoma! in Anoka?
By Jennifer Rogers
An initial mention of a theatrical production for the decades-old Oklahoma! can produce an eye-rolling, raised eyebrow, “Are you serious?” kind of reaction. But if you attended Friday night’s full-house opening of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic American tale, you undoubtedly left the theatre with your eyeballs firmly intact and a smile on your face—despite your best intentions. Only the Lyric Arts Main Street Stage’s charming production of Oklahoma! could create such an extraordinary mix of grins, laughter, and romance. Throw in some fisticuffs and good, old-fashioned gunfire, and you’re all set to saddle up for a fun entertainment adventure.
As the timeless American story unfolds, veteran director Dann Peterson’s loving hand is visible in the production of Oklahoma!, most notably in the seamless blend of its enduring music and multi-faceted characters. Rich with heart from start to finish, Peterson’s fresh approach combined with a deep appreciation of the classic musical is evident. The result is a well-polished, sharpened for the times entertainment delight, whereby both the cast and audience are visibly uplifted.
We’ve all heard them: “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” “The Farmer and the Cowman,” and “Surrey with the Fringe on Top.” Through the artistic eye of Music Director Kristin Gates, the timeless songs successfully drive the story, while enhancing Oklahoma!’s primary themes of our human capacity to grow and persevere in times of social change.
The cheerful cast delivers a heapin’ helpin’ of fun in this lively and engaging performance. From proud cowboy Curly and headstrong Laurey’s simply misunderstood love story, to fickle Ado Annie’s humorous indecision in choosing between young Will and the more “worldly” Ali Hakim, no emotional stone is left unturned. Throw in the humorously dark Jud and an energetic supporting cast, and you have yourself a recipe for an amazing good time.
Lyric Arts’ production of Oklahoma! delivers a sparkling, artistically excellent, and heartwarming performance from beginning to end. The genuine love of the craft is evidenced by the passionate involvement of cast, crew, and audience. Isn’t that what good theatre is all about?
Will the farmer and the cowman ever be friends? Better head em’ up and move em’ out to Lyric Arts Main Street Stage to find out, because you haven’t been to Oklahoma! until you’ve seen it in Anoka!
A Little Bit About Jennifer: Jennifer Rogers works PT as a billing manager for a network services company in Minneapolis. She is currently attending Metropolitan State University in pursuit of her Writing degree. In her spare time, Jennifer is working on a young adult fiction novel. She also enjoys spending time with her family participating in the variety of outdoor activities that come with the beautifully diverse seasons of Minnesota.