Rehearsals are well underway for the dazzling Gilbert and Sullivan production of Oklahoma! which opens with a Patrons & Press Night on Wednesday 18th May.
The principals and cast are hard at work putting together a show that G&S believe will be the highlight of the year. Robin Williams is working her magic as Director, Candy Johnstone is putting all through their paces on the choreography front and Shawn Lyon returns as Musical Director for this classic hit. Shan Sabbadin is our much loved and indispensable Production Secretary.
G&S are thrilled to announce the cast which boasts many G&S veterans alongside some very talented new faces. The feisty Laurey will be played by Mandi Polley who gives Ace Magxaki, as Curly, a run for his money. Faye Gatley is a treat as Ado Annie and her love interest, Will Parker, will be played alternately by Damien Anderson and Anton Crous. All are fresh from outstanding performances the Valentine’s cabaret, Crazy in Love.
Yolande Farrow will make a welcome return to the G&S stage as Aunt Eller with husband Mark Farrow playing the irascible, shotgun wielding, Andrew Carnes. Neil Leachman, who is most often seen behind the sound desk, is a revelation as the dark and dangerous Jud Fry. The Oklahoma! ensemble ranges in age from 10 to 60-something with lots of talented young people making their stage debut.
Tickets are now on sale at Computicket for R110 or you can purchase vouchers from any of the cast at the discounted price of R100.
Book online at Computicket. This is a must see show, not seen in PE for over 30 years, so get in early. (Editors Notes: Did we not see Oklahoma at the Opera House about 12 to 15 years ago?).
Rose Cowpar says; “It’s amazing the wonderful memories that Oklahoma! evokes, several people have written to me about their experiences in the cast including George Loopuyt who played Curly in the last G&S production in 1967 and Carol Stephenson who played both Ado Annie and Aunt Eller in UK productions. As a child I listened to the record of the movie soundtrack (ad nauseum) from about the age of 3 and then appeared in the ensemble as a bright eyed 13 year old. I hope this production of Oklahoma! will sow some wonderful new memories for you and your family.”
There is still the opportunity to be involved if you would like to work backstage, do front of house or help with the last stages of set building. It’s a great way to meet new friends and have some fun plus of course, there’s the satisfaction of being part of the amazing end result. Give Rose a call if you’d like to come on board – 072 906 1977.
G&S are looking for a butter churn and a surrey (with or without the fringe on top) if you happen to have a spare lying around that they could borrow for the show please call Rose.
Get a head start and buy the Special Edition DVD of Oklahoma.
Alan Straton
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