The audience is transported to the rural 1906 Oklahoma territory through the light, rhythmic sounds of a guitar and flute as they introduce the iconic “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’.”
“Oklahoma,” a musical illustrating the journey for true love, is a timeless classic expertly portrayed at Lutheran High School of Orange County. Curly (Michael Burrell) and Laurey (Kelsey Jones) try to hide their deep love from each other, while Will Parker (Anthony Skillman) must gain the approval of Ado Annie Carnes (Sarah Sommers)’s father before they can marry. An innocent story of misunderstood love, “Oklahoma” is an entertaining production, performed here by an all-star, accomplished cast with immense talent.
Michael Burrell, as Curly, is the epitome of a leading man. At ease on stage, Burrell’s deep, powerful voice fills the theatre as his southern accent enhances the overall atmosphere. Burrell misses not one note, creating an outstanding performance. Fully embodying the cowboy persona, Burrell manages to capture not only Laurey’s heart, but those of the females in the audience as well.
Kelsey Jones, as Laurey, demonstrates the great versatility of her voice through numerous songs. Even when among the ensemble, Jones manages to stand out as extraordinary. Effortlessly performing on stage, Jones develops romantic tension with Burrell, giving their love a captivating air of authenticity. Truly a remarkable performer, Jones astonishes the audience with her professional delivery and singing talents.
A gifted performer in her own right, Sarah Sommers, as Aunt Eller, has a distinctive voice that matches her character’s personality perfectly. Providing a great deal of comic relief, Sommers also utilizes a southern accent and excellent delivery to fully develop the unforgettable character.
Sarah Pierce, as Ado Annie Carnes, and Anthony Skillman, as Will Parker, playfully and effectively play off each other as if a genuine couple. Complementing each other’s voices, Pierce and Skillman act as one unit, an accomplishment greatly noticed by the audience.
In a cast of forty-one students, each actor adds something unique to the performance, escalating the entire production to a new level. These strong individuals flawlessly combine to form an even stronger group. This is the reason why “People Will Say We’re In Love” with Orange Lutheran’s production of “Oklahoma.” To view their upcoming shows, visit http://lhsoc.org/Arts.
