A hit for over 75 years, the Tony Award-winning musical ‘Oklahoma!’ returns to London, bringing its charm, humour and heart with it.
The classic tale of who will win the girl is transformed into a contemporary and deep portrayal of modern lust, with exotic artistic choices and set design utilised to revive this show.
As the audience take their seats, they are met with bright blinding lights which remain almost constant, focusing the audience’s attention and indicating what’s to come. In addition to the sunlit stage, the set is panelled with a pine wood aesthetic, creating a modern barn feel, with shotguns displayed proudly on the walls. The set is kept minimal, with one long wooden dining table and several wooden chairs. The show begins abruptly, as no curtain is used. The audience are a part of the action and at parts the characters on stage interact with the audience, immersing themselves.
Lighting in this production is standout. This show plays with the senses, using dramatic blackout and coloured washes to set the tone of the scene. At one point, the stage is pitch black during an emotive scene, causing the audience to feel discomfort at the length of time in surrounding darkness. Colourful fairy lights and bunting become a focal point at times, further demonstrating that the entire stage is used in this performance.
Sound throughout the production is used effectively, often making the audience jump. Microphones and echo are used to vary volumes, heightening the senses even further. Props on stage are used to create beats as well as the actors’ bodies. The band are a key part of this show, the action fuelled by the country instruments and their interaction with the cast. An acoustic guitar is used effectively by the lead, Curly (Arthur Darvill) to introduce us to the characters as well as to provide for more sombre moments in the show.
This cast cannot be faulted, their energy, characterisation and perfect harmonisation making them a pleasure to watch. The Southern accent is difficult to perfect, this cast individually managing to hold the dialect seamlessly. Moments where the cast harmonise are flawless and their strong vocal abilities are showcased. Ado Annie (Georgia Onuorah) provides fabulous comedy, Onuorah’s facial expressions and vocal control in the number ‘I Cain’t Say No’ are particularly immaculate, especially her interaction with the audience. Her humorous moments with Will Parker (James Patrick Davis) and Ali Hakim (Stavros Demetraki) are well executed, their fun palpable.
This adaptation is a recontextualised, bold statement of a timeless classic. The songs, artistic choices and special effects influence the challenging narrative, offering for an educational and enjoyable evening of theatre.
Oklahoma! is currently playing at Wyndham’s Theatre, London for a limited run until 2nd September 2023. Tickets can be purchased from: https://www.oklahomawestend.com/
Reviewer: Maani Way
Reviewed: 28th February 2023
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★