SAN GABRIEL, CA - For almost 60 years, The Shakespeare League of Pasadena has been producing top-notch musical theatre productions donating the proceeds to local charities of the San Gabriel Valley. This year's production of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Oklahoma will have your toes tappin' and your hands clappin.' Produced by Tanya Danforth, no detail is overlooked - from the fabulous sets to the colorfully detailed costumes. In case you need a refresher course, the principals are Curly a cowboy, farm owner Laurey and hired hand Jud, who's neither cowboy or farmer but an outsider. Curly and Jud's rivalry begins when both men vie to take Laurey to a box social. It culminates in a fight to the death and ends well for everybody except Jud. What makes the story memorable is the way the characters come alive as an embodiment of the American frontier spirit of community, optimism and patriotism. The opening image of Aunt Eller
(played with no-nonsense charm and energy by Judy Norquist)
alone on stage as she churns butter immediately establishes the
sense of the still desolate and developing frontier. The action
begins with the beautifully resonant voice of Philip Schneider singing "Oh What a Beautiful Morning" to Aunt Eller,
as waits to see the charming, yet spunky Laurey played by Benita Scheckel.
Her voice is amazing, adding a certain depth to the character that is rare but essential for
a musical with such a heavy plot. Her stage presence is captivating from the moment she enters the first scene to the climax of the musical. Together with Mr. Schneider,
their blend and harmony is a delight. Although the ensemble staging is a bit stiff at times, the overall production from the lighting to the sets is quite good. Rikki Lugo has provided the cast with some wonderful choreography, and the orchestra, under the direction of Richard Allen, is outstanding. Director Bill Shaw has created a wonderful production for the Shakespeare League this year. He has a clear understanding of classic music theater: so for those who love this staple of American theater, you won't be disappointed. - Michael Upward |
Maestro Arts and ReviewsCopyright © 2005 The Maestro GroupAll rights reserved.Online Reviews: www.maestro.ws/arts |