GHHS preps 'Oklahoma!'

Tue, Nov 3, 2009    to del.icio.us

More than 120 Grand Haven High School students are busy fine-tuning their upcoming production of Rodgers & Hammerstein's "Oklahoma!" Auditions were held in August and rehearsals began on the first day of school.

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Performances will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday and on Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m.

The Saturday matinee was added because the Grand Haven High School football team has a playoff game against Rockford Friday night, and the musical's originally scheduled Friday performance has been canceled, according to Director Rita McLary.

McLary said all Friday evening tickets will automatically convert to tickets for the Saturday matinee.

The musical features seniors Caite Lenahan as Laurey and Carson Reau as Curly. Chaz Bratton as cowboy Will and Courtney Cotter as Ado Annie, They are joined onstage with seniors Austin Campos as the "bad guy" Jud; Bobby Melvin as Annie's father; and juniors Sarah Stepanek as Aunt Eller and Kevin McLary as Ali Hakim.

The story takes place in the Oklahoma territory just before it becomes a state in the union. It centers on a young couple, Laurey and Curly, who clearly love each other, but let circumstances keep them apart.

This classic of the American musical theater was first produced in 1943 and set traditions in the genre that are still followed today.

"Oklahoma!" was the first musical to rely on both dance and the lyrics of the songs to advance the story. Rodger & Hammerstein's first collaboration still has volumes to speak to today's audience about survival and enduring hard times.

Vocal Music Director Shirley Lemon and Instrumental Music Director Greg Maynard join Choreographer Julie Kieft to bring an evening of entertainment.

Familiar songs include "Oh, What a Beautiful Morning," "People Will Say We're in Love," "I'm Just a Girl Who Can't Say No," "Kansas City" and the signature song, "Oklahoma!"

Tickets are available at the GHHS main office or reserved by calling 850-6092. Main floor reserved seating is available for $12 adults, $10 for students or senior citizens. Balcony seating is $10 for adults and $8 for students or senior citizens.

For more information, call the high school at 850-6000.