Oklahoma at the Lyceum Theatre Sheffield Review
Oklahoma!
Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield
21 July to 1 August 2015
Reviewed by Gemma Brunt
As a child I spent many an afternoon at my Grandparents watching Rogers and Hammerstein films with my sister, Oklahoma being the most repeated one due to it being my sisters favourite, so when I came to see Oklahoma on stage I started my night wondering if it could live up to those happy memories. I can happily say yes it most certainly did.
Just a little background for those who aren’t familiar with the story – Oklahoma is the first musical written by the team of composer Richard Rodgers and librettist Oscar Hammerstein II. The musical is based on Lynn Riggs’ 1931 play, Green Grow the Lilacs. Set in Oklahoma territory, it tells the story of cowboy Curly McLain and his romance with farm girl Laurey Williams.
The set was simple yet effective, giving just enough to set the scene but not diverting attention from the performers on stage and the costumes were well thought out and keeping with the era the musical is set in… plenty of petticoats, frilly bloomers and leather chaps!!
Cheeky cowboy Curly (played by Ashley Day) and his sweetheart Laurey (played by Charlotte Wakefield) were brilliantly paired, such fabulous chemistry between them. With his cheeky yet slightly smug attitude, Curly had you rooting for him from the start and ever so slightly standoffish (yet likeable) Laurey just need a good wakeup call… come on woman you have an all singing all dancing cowboy asking you out!
Ali Hakim, the pedlar man (played by Gary Wilmot), was absolutely hilarious from his mannerisms to his one liners, I laughed out loud whenever he was on stage.
The character that really stole the show for me was Aunt Eller (played by Belinda Lang) the croaky old lady who manages to keep order over the young un’s with her shot gun.
The pairing of the other 2 star crossed lovers of the play – rodeo bull riding with parker and the floozy who can’t say no, Ado Annie (Simon Anthony and Lucy May Barker) was also very well cast and performed.
The part of Jud Fry the farm hand was played by Nic Greenshields. His voice is simply incredible, whenever he opened his mouth I got goosebumps and his portrayal of the lonely and obsessed Jud was brilliant, I wanted to hate him for his behaviour towards Curly and Laurey, yet I felt for him too as he realised his love went unrequited.
From start to finish this musical is filled with songs which were sung with such passion, wonderful music that had me tapping my toes and clapping my hand all the way through and energetic dancing (choreographed by Drew McOnie).
The enthusiasm shown by all performers was truly wonderful, they looked like they were having so much fun and seemed so comfortable with each other, nothing seemed forced, almost like it was real life not at all acted out. An A* cast.
Though there are a few variances from the film version, this production truly did bring back all the fond memories from my childhood and I recommend going to see it, even if you think it isn’t your “thing”. I defy anyone to walk out of the theatre without a smile on their face. Though I will admit I was bitterly disappointed to be going home in a car instead of a surry with a fringe on the top.
I viewed Oklahoma at the Sheffield Lyceum where I have been many times, as always I was very pleased with the service I got there, the staff are very friendly, there are plenty of facilities (so very rarely a queue for the toilet!) and the bars are well stocked.
Tickets cost from £19 to £34 (booking fees may apply).
Oklahoma is at the Lyceum Theatre in Sheffield until 1 August 2015. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0114 249 6000.
Lyceum Theate, Norfolk St, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S1 1DA | 0114 249 6000