Review: Oklahoma! (UK Tour) at the Derngate Theatre

Oklahoma! (UK Tour)
Derngate Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 23rd February 2015
★★★★

A classic musical of huge importance, Rodgers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma! may burst with old school charm but it's not all fluff and cheese. The show, which is set in the early 1900s, tells the story of two sets of star-crossed lovers.

Shockingly I had never actually seen Oklahoma! onstage before, yet I still found myself resisting the urge to hum along to its famous and utterly joyous score. It is an iconic show that did big things for musical theatre. 

Rachel Kavanaugh's brand new production has heart and soul; her direction allows you to feel the warmth of the old classic.

Starring as Curly, Ashley Day takes to the stage with charm and charisma, shining opposite Charlotte Wakefield as Laurey. Both Day and Wakefield are exceptional triple threats; they perform scenes with fight and character, sing the score to perfection and dance beautifully together. Most importantly they share strong chemistry and appear to enjoy their time onstage.