Photo: Dan Rest/Lyric Opera of Chicago — at Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The West won Chicago!

BTSCelebs was given the opportunity to review Oklahoma! at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on May 11th, 2013. The lovable Broadway hit and movie from the 1950s was reborn at the opera. This version of Oklahoma! was familiar with two additional songs (Ali Hakim’s “It’s a Scandal! It’s a Outrage!” and Jud Fry’s “Lonely Room”) that weren’t included in the 1955 movie with Shirley Jones.

Questions are answered and characters are defined (specifically Jud Fry and Ali Hakim) in this special show. On the day BTSCelebs viewed the opera, actor Paul La Rosa filled in for original Jud (David Adam Moore). Everyone on the cast were superb dancers and excellent singers. They made me want to join in on the “Oklahoma” chorus towards the end.

The story-line followed the 1955 movie I’m used to with a few twists, turns and pleasant surprises.  Magnificent, Bravo and Spectacular are just a few words to describe Oklahoma! 2013. I would have loved to see more chemistry between the main characters (John Cudia [aka Curly McLain] and Ashley Brown [aka Laurey Williams])besides the kissing scene. Their interaction throughout the entire performance could have surpassed the kiss/proposal scene. Jud Fry’s understudy was so appealing, I’m surprised he was chosen for the dark role. His acting was made for Curly or a more friendly role.

Also, I have to give two thumbs up to actor Usman Ally for his portrayal of Ali Hakim. He took the role and made it his own. He brought so much personality to the fun character.

I highly recommend people of all ages check out this refreshing new cast of Oklahoma!.

Oklahoma! will run at the Lyric Opera of Chicago through  May 19th, 2013.

Check out their official website for more information:

http://www.lyricopera.org

BTSCelebs sends a special thanks to Manager of Media Relations Magda Krance and Jack Zimmerman for letting me review the production.