Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!” takes Center Stage Theatre in Shelton, Connecticut and is a foot-stomping good time. Directed by Liz Muller and choreographed by Brandy Bailey & Michael ‘Beetle’ Bailey, Sunday’s 2 PM sold-out show immersed the audience in the farm town atmosphere from the moment they took their seats. It was an immersive theater experience, with cast members serenading the audience with lively music. The stage featured a large screen, elevating the production value. While it’s community theater, the performance reached a professional level, ensuring audiences would not be disappointed.
The opening number, “Oh! What a Beautiful Morning,” was expertly delivered by John Corraro (who portrays Curly). His charming stage presence and ringing, dependable instrument were well-suited for the lead role. Tammy D’Auria, as Aunt Eller, was also perfectly cast, with a rich, welcoming voice and a personality that embodied all the jovialness and humor needed. Maggie Kruse brought a no-nonsense frankness to the role of Laurey, the woman who will not easily be won over.
Scene-stealers included Sandra Fernandes as Ado Annie, whose powerful belt matched her portrayal of the girl who can’t say no; Marc Garofalo as Ali Hakim, played a peddler extraordinaire whose womanizing ways kept catching up with him; and Katelyn Botsford Tucker as Gertie Cummings was able to impress with only a laugh. Scott Sheldon portrayed the dark role of Jud Fry with mystery and strength, particularly shining in the dramatic scenes.
While Rodgers and Hammerstein are beloved for their family-friendly material, they also touch on very real issues such as prejudice, domestic violence, and fascism. In its unaltered state, “Oklahoma!” can be uncomfortable at times. The leading man, Curly, is portrayed as good-natured and light, but when he paints the story of Jud’s death, it becomes clear that he too has a dark side. Aunt Eller is a little too eager to brush off Laurey’s misgivings about Jud.
The production shines brightest in its moments of comedy. Ado Annie’s youthful enjoyment and reluctance to be tied down lead to a delightful love triangle between Will Parker and Ali Hakim, expertly portrayed by Sandra, Ram, and Paul Keegan respectively. Curly and Laurey’s stubborn refusal to be the first to express their feelings leads to complications, with their rendition of “People Will Say We’re in Love” featuring subtle movements and expressions that resonated well in the venue. Aunt Eller, played by Tammy, is a delight, whether playfully bantering with Curly, keeping the cowboys and farmers in line, or consoling Laurey in the end. A stand-out performer.
Laurey’s initial apprehension about Jud gives way into a troubling dream sequence convincingly delivered by the whole cast, with Julia Murphy as Dream Laurey displaying graceful movement and acting. When Laurey and Curly finally profess their love, the whole town eagerly celebrates, and their rendition of “Oklahoma!” is absolutely rousing. However, the joy is marred by the reappearance and death of Jud, making the final ensemble reprise of “Oh! What a Beautiful Morning” poignant, showing that while the community will go on, it has been forever changed.
Tickets are still available for the February 23 & 25 shows. Find them on centerstageshelton.org
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This show was incredible! Get your tickets while they are still available!