From Stage to Spotlight: 5 Groundbreaking Facts About Oklahoma!
OKLAHOMA may seem old (cowboy) hat today. But, once upon a time, it was considered America’s most groundbreaking musical. Over 80 years later, it still holds up! Keep reading to find out why…
- First Integrated Musical: Oklahoma! is widely recognized as the first fully integrated musical where all the elements – songs, dances, and storyline – worked together seamlessly to advance the plot and develop the characters. This was a departure from earlier musicals where songs often served as entertainment breaks from the narrative.
- Emphasis on Storytelling and Character Development: The creative team of Rodgers and Hammerstein prioritized the story and creating psychologically complex characters. They were bold in removing elements that didn’t serve the narrative, leading to a more focused and dramatically sound production than the musical comedies that preceded it.
- Innovative use of Dance: The choreography by Agnes de Mille was revolutionary. Instead of being mere spectacle or light entertainment, the dance sequences, particularly the “Dream Ballet,” were integral to the plot and revealed the characters’ inner emotions and struggles. The ballet was choreographed to express the narrative and was created in harmony with the music, representing a pivotal moment in American musical history.
- First Original Cast Album: Oklahoma! was the first Broadway musical to release a complete original cast album featuring the Broadway orchestra and cast. This helped popularize the show and became a standard practice for future musicals, forever changing how musical theatre was marketed and experienced beyond the stage.
- Launched the Golden Age of American Musicals: Oklahoma! elevated the art form of musical theatre and kicked off a period known as the “Golden Age” of American musicals, which lasted for several decades. It influenced countless subsequent productions and established a new standard for seriousness and artistry in the genre.
If You Go:
“Oklahoma! In Concert” at Players Circle Theater
13211 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
Performance dates run August 21 – 31. Tickets are $35-$45.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening performances start at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday matinee performances start at 3 p.m.
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO PURCHASE TICKETS!
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