Oklahoma!
The classic musical Oklahoma! returns to London with an interesting and innovative take.
The current version takes the dark potential of the play to another level.
The venue is lit for most of the show, so the audience is actually part of it. However, there are also scenes of absolute darkness.
All this with lots of modern dance and cowboy boot stomping, a wonderful orchestra and an excellent cast.
Oklahoma! The Plot
The plot revolves around the strains between cowboy and rancher, their conflicts over water, boundaries… and, of course, matters of the heart.
The year is 1906 and Oklahoma is a state in the process of being formed (it officially became a state in the USA in 1907).
The social and political tensions between cowboys and farmers are the backdrop to the story, with the main focus being the love triangle between Lori – an independent farmer’s daughter, Carly – a cowboy who is in love with Lori, and Judd – a mysterious and troubled farm boy (a little reminding of Kurt Cobain in this production) who is also in love with Lori.
The play’s colourful characters provide great comic relief as they prepare for the evening’s dance, in which both cowboys and ranchers take part.
The dance is the climax of the play and will determine their fate.
Makes you wonder what Rogers and Hammerstein, the writing duo behind such Broadway classics as The King and I, The Sound of Music and many more, would think of this version of Oklahoma!
Tickets for Oklahoma! in London
The revival of the musical was recently a hit on Broadway and in the Off West End at the Young Vic Theatre. Tickets have been snapped up!
It is currently running at the Wyndham’s Theatre until September 2023. The nearest tube station is Leicester Square.
Tickets are available from London Theatre Direct.
Warning: The Musical is recommended for ages 12+. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted.
The Musical runs for 2 hours 50 minutes with one intermission.
Other musicals and plays that we recommend
For a great comedy for the whole family, the one and only, Mrs Doubtfire!
For musicals based on the songs of a particular band/singer, try Tina Turner Musical or Jersey boys
We recommend watching the stunning remake of Moulin Rouge, with its familiar songs.
If you want to see amazing sets and impressive effects, try musicals like Back to the Future The Musical, Frozen or Wicked
For witty adult humour, try Book of Mormon or Hamilton.
For classic musicals, try Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera.
For a witty and sophisticated musical, try Matilda.
For a musical that is suitable for children (and adults!) with a simpler level of English, try the Disney Musical, The Lion King
If you are looking for a play rather than a musical, try Witness for the Prosecution, The Mousetrap – both Agatha Christie classics – or alternatively The Play That Goes Wrong, which is ridiculously funny!
For more options and details, check out plays and musicals in London.