“Oklahoma!” Musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein Premieres on Broadway

“Oklahoma!” is a groundbreaking American musical with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics and a book by Oscar Hammerstein II. The musical is based on the 1931 play “Green Grow the Lilacs” by Lynn Riggs. Set in the early 20th-century Oklahoma Territory, the story revolves around the romance between cowboy Curly McLain and farm girl Laurey Williams. “Oklahoma!” is considered a milestone in the development of musical theater, integrating songs and dialogue to advance the plot and develop characters.

“Oklahoma!” premiered on Broadway at the St. James Theatre on March 31, 1943, and was an immediate success. It ran for an unprecedented 2,212 performances, closing on May 29, 1948. The original Broadway production was directed by Rouben Mamoulian and choreographed by Agnes de Mille, whose innovative dream ballet sequence was groundbreaking then.

The musical’s memorable songs include “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” “The Surrey with the Fringe on Top,” “People Will Say We’re in Love,” and, of course, the rousing title song, “Oklahoma!” The show’s success led to a 1955 film adaptation directed by Fred Zinnemann, which won two Academy Awards.

Effects on Pop Culture:

• “Oklahoma!” had a significant impact on musical theater’s development, integrating songs, dialogue, and dance to create a cohesive narrative, setting the standard for future Broadway musicals.
• The musical’s popularity inspired numerous revivals, international productions, and adaptations for television and other media.
• “Oklahoma!” has been referenced in various films, television shows, and books, showcasing its influence and enduring popularity in American culture.
• Numerous artists and comedians have covered and parodied the songs from “Oklahoma!”, further cementing the musical’s place in popular culture.

Prominent People and Countries Involved:

• United States: “Oklahoma!” was produced and premiered on Broadway in New York City, reflecting the growth and importance of American musical theater in the 20th century.
• Richard Rodgers: American composer who created the music for “Oklahoma!” and collaborated with Oscar Hammerstein II on several other successful musicals.
• Oscar Hammerstein II: American librettist and lyricist who wrote the book and lyrics for “Oklahoma!” and worked with Richard Rodgers on numerous other musicals.
• Rouben Mamoulian: Armenian-American director of the original Broadway production of “Oklahoma!”
• Agnes de Mille: American choreographer who developed the innovative dream ballet sequence for “Oklahoma!” and contributed to its groundbreaking integration of dance and storytelling.

“Oklahoma!” is a groundbreaking American musical that premiered on Broadway on March 31, 1943, with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics and book by Oscar Hammerstein II. The musical’s integration of songs, dialogue, and dance to create a cohesive narrative set the standard for future Broadway musicals. “Oklahoma!” has had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring numerous revivals, adaptations, and references in various media.