Noda Write Up Oklahoma

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Show Reports for District 1

Shows reviewed by Lyn Emmerson unless otherwise stated.

BUTTINGTON MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

OKLAHOMA (2009)

Producer: Pat Edwards Musical Director: Joyce Gape

Rogers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma first performed in New York’s St James’ Theatre in 1943, one of their finest collaborations which brought new freshness and vitality that it changed the direction of musical comedy forever.

This society’s offering commenced with the unmistakeable ‘Oh What a Beautiful Morning’ sung by a confident ‘Curly’, played by Doug Skilton as he entered the auditorium. Linda Skilton immediately took the reins of her task as ‘Laurey’ as soon as she made her first entrance and blended well with Curly in all musical numbers. Julie Prince was very convincing with her characterisation of ‘Aunt Eller’ imposing her authority at the correct moments and portraying both a natural tenderness and sympathy towards Laurey – an excellent performance. Full marks to Les Skilton as Jud Fry, his ‘Lonely Room’ being a highlight. I did however think there was no need to bring the men’s chorus on in ‘Poor Jud’; I felt it took something away from Curly and Jud. Tina Lawson kept her accent throughout as ‘Ado Annie Carnes’ and was partnered by John Parkinson as Will Parker. Phil Watkin had all the answers as ‘Ali Hakim’ and fully justifled his selection. There were many minor roles which were well cast. Sarah Young and Sol Batoctoy danced well as Laurey and Curly in the Dream Ballet, which was rather short. The chorus supported the principles on all fronts, particularly the men’s chorus in ‘Trapped Tricked with Ali Hakim, however I did miss the dancing in some of the big numbers.

Your performance and enthusiasm compensated a long trip in bad weather. Congratulations and thank you all so much for your invitation. I look forward to your next production.

Reproduced from noda Wales & Ireland Region website

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