Kate Santini ‘27
News Editor
The Holy Cross Department of Theatre and Dance debuted their adaptation of Rodger & Hammerstein’s classic production of Oklahoma! Opening Weekend brought a nearly packed house each night! Directed by the Professor of Practice in Music Theater, Meaghan Deiter, this production transports us to Oklahoma in 1906 which at the time, was a territory still awaiting statehood. The production features iconic musical numbers, including “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” “People Will Say We’re in Love,” “Oklahoma!” and many more. In addition to watching the actors assume the personas of wild west cowboys, farmers and country girls, the audience watches a love story transpire between protagonists Curly McLain, played by Micheal Sheehan ‘25, and Laurey Williams, who is played by Lilly Percival ‘27. While the play is mainly centered around this budding romance, there are other plotlines, including that of a Parisian trader who finds himself trapped into an undesirable engagement with the overly eager and promiscuous Ado Annie. The production caters to a wide audience. It has comedy, romance, music, and at times, intense drama. The Holy Cross Theater Department also vocalized its commitment to taking a slightly more feminist approach by emphasizing the independence of its female characters.
A member of the cast, Victor Torres ‘27, who plays the character of Fred, a cowboy in the ensemble, shares that “the ensemble really forms the backdrop of the show, so to get into character, I dove deep into the circumstances of the show–the show being set during a period of change and hope, the environment of Oklahoma, etc.–and tried to find creative and active ways to exemplify those qualities in my performance.”
Showgoer Danielle Ford ‘27 commented that one of her favorite parts of the production was the “dream sequence” and all of the “dance numbers.” Another attendee of Opening Night, Maren Baisley ‘27, shares that “Oklahoma is one of those plays I always hear about, yet I’ve never gotten the opportunity to see it until now. I was very impressed by the actors’ performances and thoroughly enjoyed the production!” She further adds that “the golden yellow lighting encapsulated the aesthetic of the Oklahoma countryside very well.”
Reflecting on his experience in the production thus far, Torres comments, “it’s been such a joy putting this production together. It was a very long process (over 100 days!) but every rehearsal was so rewarding. It was truly an honor for me to explore a musical that many say ushered in the ‘Golden Age’ of musicals and that I personally grew up watching and listening to. This show and the music from this show is close to so many people’s hearts.”
Looking ahead, performances will continue into the upcoming weekend, with the final one taking place on Sunday, February 18th at 2:00. Tickets, which are discounted for students, can still be purchased via the Prior Performing Arts Center’s website but are of limited supply! When asked why students should come and see the show, Torres advises that “people should surrender themselves to these beautiful melodies, and to experience the characters that I think resonate with so many of us. Also, it’s a night of laughter, music, and joy!” So, take Torres’ advice and purchase your ticket today on https://priorperformingartscenter.holycross.edu/oklahoma/ to show your support for the Holy Cross Theater Department!
Copy Edited by Hannah Torrey
Featured Image Courtesy of the Holy Cross Instagram
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