Oklahoma Musical Lyrics

Oklahoma Lyrics

Oklahoma musical description

The musical is based on the play "Green Grow the Lilacs" by Lynn Riggs. Composer – Richard Rodgers. Screenwriter – Oscar Hammerstein II. Trials were held in March 1943 at the Shubert Theatre stage. After renaming the musical and making it in a new way, the spectacular was shown on Broadway. The play was on stage of St. James Theatre from March 1943 to May 1948, with 2212 performances. Directed by Rouben Mamoulian. Choreographed by Agnes de Mille. The cast included Alfred Drake, Joan Roberts, Celeste Holm, Howard Da Silva, Betty Garde, Lee Dixon, Joseph Bulloff, Joan Lawrence, Marc Platt, Katharine Sergava & Vladimir Kostenko.

The London premiere took place in April 1947 at the Theatre Royal. The show concluded in May 1950 after 1543 performances. Directed by Rouben Mamoulian, choreographed by Agnes de Mille. The cast included Howard Keel, Betty Jane Watson, Dinah MacFarland, Harold Clarke, Marion Marlowe, Walter Donahue & Marie Windheim. In April 1947, the musical was also held at the Manchester Opera House.

In May 1951, it was staged at the Broadway Theatre for 100 performances. The cast included Patricia Northrop, Ridge Bond, Harold Clarke & Jack Sundt. In 1953, 40 performances took place at NY’s City Center with Florence Henderson, Ridge Bond, and Barbara Cook. The new version of the production was held at the Palace Theatre from December 1979 to August 1980, directed by William Hammerstein, choreographed by Gemze de Lappe. A new variant was shown in the West End in 1980 and during 1998 – 2003, in London's George Gershwin Theatre. The musical received several Theatre World, Tony, Drama Desk, and other awards.

Recently, "Oklahoma!" experienced a significant revival that brought fresh interpretations to this classic. In 2019, the Broadway revival, directed by Daniel Fish, won the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. This production offered a darker, more intimate reimagining of the original, featuring contemporary orchestrations and innovative staging. The cast included Damon Daunno, Rebecca Naomi Jones, Mary Testa, and Ali Stroker, who made history as the first actor in a wheelchair to win a Tony Award.

Additionally, "Oklahoma!" has continued to tour internationally, with productions in countries like Australia and Japan, further solidifying its status as a timeless piece of American musical theatre. The success of the recent revivals and tours has proven that "Oklahoma!" remains relevant, resonating with modern audiences while celebrating its rich legacy.

Release date: 1943
Last Update: March, 23rd 2025

"Oklahoma!" Soundtrack: A Musical Landmark

Album Overview.

Release Date: August 1, 1955.
Genre: Musical Theater, Soundtrack.
Length: Approximately 42 minutes (original release).
Label: Capitol Records.
Certifications: First album certified "gold" by the RIAA in 1958; later certified "2x multi-platinum" in 1992.
Chart Performance: Reached No. 1 on the Billboard Pop Album Chart in 1956.

The "Oklahoma!" soundtrack captures the essence of the 1955 film adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein's groundbreaking musical. The album features performances by the film's cast, including Gordon MacRae (Curly McLain) and Shirley Jones (Laurey Williams), delivering timeless songs that have become classics in musical theater.

Production and Reception.

The soundtrack was recorded on May 11, 1955, and released by Capitol Records. Notably, it became the first album to be certified "gold" by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on July 8, 1958, signifying sales of over 500,000 units. In 1992, it achieved "2x multi-platinum" status, reflecting its enduring popularity. Critically acclaimed upon release, the soundtrack's success mirrored that of the film, which was praised for its faithful adaptation of the stage musical. The album's popularity contributed to the recognition of songs like "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'" and "The Surrey with the Fringe on Top."

Critic's Reviews.

Critics lauded the soundtrack for its vibrant orchestration and the cast's compelling performances. The Guardian's Andrew Clements noted that conductor John Wilson's meticulous preparation resulted in a recording that authentically represents what audiences would have experienced during the musical's original Broadway run in 1943.

Track Highlights.

"Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'" by Gordon MacRae: Opens the soundtrack with an uplifting melody, setting a positive tone.
"The Surrey with the Fringe on Top" by Gordon MacRae, Shirley Jones, and Charlotte Greenwood: A charming tune that showcases the playful courtship between Curly and Laurey.
"I Cain't Say No" by Gloria Grahame: A humorous song reflecting Ado Annie's romantic dilemmas.
"People Will Say We're in Love" by Gordon MacRae and Shirley Jones: A romantic duet expressing the protagonists' budding feelings.
"Oklahoma!" by the Ensemble: A rousing finale celebrating community and statehood.

Musical Styles and Themes.

The soundtrack blends classical music elements with American folk traditions, reflecting the early 20th-century setting. Themes of love, community, and the pioneering spirit are interwoven throughout the songs, capturing the optimism and challenges of frontier life.

Film Background.

The 1955 film "Oklahoma!" is an adaptation of the 1943 Broadway musical by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Set in the Oklahoma Territory at the turn of the 20th century, it follows the romantic entanglements of Curly McLain and Laurey Williams, alongside a secondary plot involving Ado Annie and her suitors. The film was directed by Fred Zinnemann and is noted for its picturesque cinematography and faithful representation of the original stage production.

Main Cast of the Movie.

Gordon MacRae as Curly McLain.

Gordon MacRae portrays Curly McLain, a charismatic cowboy vying for Laurey's affection. His rich baritone voice brings depth to Curly's iconic songs.

Shirley Jones as Laurey Williams.

Shirley Jones plays Laurey Williams, a headstrong farm girl torn between two suitors. This role marked Jones's film debut, showcasing her vocal talent and screen presence.

Rod Steiger as Jud Fry.

Rod Steiger takes on the role of Jud Fry, the brooding farmhand whose obsession with Laurey adds tension to the narrative.

Gloria Grahame as Ado Annie Carnes.

Gloria Grahame portrays Ado Annie, whose flirtatious nature leads to comedic subplots, adding levity to the story.

Gene Nelson as Will Parker.

Gene Nelson plays Will Parker, a cowboy competing for Ado Annie's affection, bringing energetic dance sequences to the film.

Quotes

"The 'Oklahoma!' soundtrack is a testament to the enduring power of musical theater, capturing the spirit and optimism of a bygone era."

— Music Historian The "Oklahoma!" soundtrack remains a seminal work in musical theater history, reflecting the innovation and enduring appeal of Rodgers and Hammerstein's creation. Its songs continue to resonate with audiences, embodying the pioneering spirit and communal bonds of early 20th-century America.

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