Oklahoma! --  the first musical penned by Rodgers and Hammerstein and one of the most loved of its genre – is coming to Holstein. Tonight is opening night at the Optimist Community Centre with performances through Saturday, Aug. 28 at 7:30 p.m. and a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. There’s still time to get your tickets.
With a cast of 45 local residents ranging in age from five to adults, the production is being directed by Cindy Aitken and choreographed by Jennie Aitken. Musical director is Paul Eccles.
The original Broadway production opened in 1943 and was a box office smash that ran for an unprecedented 2,212 performances. The 1955 film won an Academy Award and the music -- “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning”,  “Surry with a Fringe On Top” and “People Will Say We’re In Love” -- have been enduring favorites.
Set in the Oklahoma territory of the early 1900s it tells the story of cowboy Curly McLean (Scott McInnes) and his romance with farm girl Laurey Williams (Jennie Aitken). Joining in the chase for love is cowboy Will parker (Kyle Calder) and his flirtatious fiancée Ado Annie (Lara Riehl).
Additional featured performers include Neil Aitken as the sinister Jud Fry, a hired hand for Aunt Eller, played by Laurie Aitken. Ray Love is Andrew Carnes, Derek Aitken plays Ali Hakim and Tammy Odell graces the stage as Gertie.
The ambitious production promises much for audiences, complete with a picnic, a dance, a wedding and even a fight, all tied together with local musicians providing live music.
It’s always fun to see your friends and neighbors up on stage and the Holstein productions never fail to please. See you in Holstein this weekend.