Bloomington High School North, Nikean, 1977, Page 12

Description:	Oklahoma! Smash HitWhen a production is as well received as lastsprings OKLAHOMA! was, an incredible amountof hard work and cooperation is a necessity. Thismusical represented the first coordinated effort ofthe Music, Art, and Theatre Departments. Morethan 100 people worked enthusiastically from January until May. But on opening night, May 6,1976, when the audience applauded above thesound of the storm outside, then rose to their feet,all the long hours of hard work was worth it.The musical is familiar, well-loved, and one ofRogers and Hammersteins greatest hits. The plotrevolves around the belle of Oklahoma territory,Laurey, portrayed by Debbie Gallagher (76), andher two suitors, Curly, a cowboy and Jud, a hiredhand on the farm that she shares with her AuntEller. These were played by senior Mark Wells,David Moore (76), and Nancy Ferguson (76). Inthe end, Laurey and Curly marry, but Jud is killedby falling on a knife during a fight with Curly.Realism such as this is what sets OKLAHOMA!apart from most American musicals.Another feature that makes OKLAHOMA! standout is its comic characters: Ali Hakim, played bysenior John Lucas; the Persian peddler who eventually marries giggling Gertie, portrayed by NelaKrawczuk (76); Will, a well-meaning but bumbling cowboy played by Bill Nichols (76) and AdoAnnie his fiancee who just caint say no, portrayed by senior Lisa Belcher.Perhaps the people who poured the most timeand effort into the production were the three co-directors. Nancy Leonchik, theatre director,assumed the responsibility of director. Eldon Far-ies, Fine Arts Department chairman, was technical director. David Mcintosh, choral director,was music director, assisted by Gary Moss, Marjo-rie Hoffer, Lissa Fleming, and Fritz Hepler.Student crew heads also played a large role.Erin Peffley (76), was assistant director and stagemanager; choreography was handled by Kurt Bales(76), and junior Beth Goen; production managerwas senior Matt Sieber; lighting and sound wasKonrad Kliewers responsibility; senior Donna Hat-tin was in charge of costuming; sophomore SallyHicks served as props crew head and Elaine Elkinwas in charge of publicity.OKLAHOMA! was so successful that a Musical-Theatre fund was initiated. Its goal is to entertainin the tradition of OKLAHOMA!12
Source:	http://cdm17129.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/hs-bloomnorth/id/609
Collection:	Bloomington High School North

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