Oklahoma

Milton Musical Society

Regent Centre, Christchurch

My second visit to this lovely theatre and the enthusiastic audience once again responded well to the fine fare on-stage. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s show is jam-packed with familiar songs and Lee Marchant led a faultlessly lively orchestra. In Alex Cook, (Curly) Director John Teather has a leading man of rare quality, possessing great stage presence and a voice to match. As his love-interest Laurey, Shannon Fisher also impressed but there were several other outstanding performances, particularly from Max White as the surly ranch-hand Judd Fry. Adam Davis was a particularly energetic Will Parker, Charlotte Deverill an appealing Ado Annie, coupled with Martin Mansfield’s sleazy peddler Ali Hakim and Suzanne Teather a likeable Aunt Eller. The large ensemble harmonised perfectly and the choreography, by Stephanie Constantine-Smith, was another pleasing feature. With a good-looking set (the Surrey was a lovely surprise) and costumes, crystal-clear sound and effective lighting, this show was most definitely OK.

Alan Johns