Oklahoma! set to delight local audiences next week

Tullamore Musical Society presents the much-loved "Oklahoma!" for a six night run in the Tullamore Court Hotel from next Monday, January 12. The Rodgers and Hammerstein musical tells the love story of cowboy Curly McClain (played by Seamus Carroll) and farmgirl Laurey Williams (Lisa English) in 1906. The friction between the farmers and cowmen is evident throughout the story, and there is the intriguing the sub-plot of the attempts by the sinister and dark-hearted farm-hand Jud Fry (Paul Norton) to win Laurey"s affections. Much of the great comedy in the show happens through the love triangle of the ditsy Ado Annie (Karen Martin), cowboy Will Parker (Graham Finnerty) and the "Persian" peddler Ali Hakim (Colin Hughes). Laurey"s guardian, Aunt Eller (Joan White) watches over the developing relationship and tries to smooth the path for the young couple. Directed by Tara Ann Byrne, the show is a wonderful spectacle and will completely engage the audience from start to finish. Tara Ann collected the AIMS Best Overall Show Award as director of this musical before, in 2007. Musical director Enda O"Connor takes the orchestra under his baton and with chorus mistress Regina McCarthy prepared the chorus and principals to deliver wonderful performances and songs such as "Oklahoma!", "Oh What a Beautiful Morning!", "The Surrey With the Fringe On Top", "I Can"t Say No", "People Will Say We"re in Love", and "The Farmer and the Cowman" and many more, making this a musical treat for all the family. The main cast is joined by a hugely talented and energetic ensemble who deliver the show"s big numbers with great gusto. The show runs smoothly under the guidance of stage manager Joe Molloy and his crew. Another highlight is the stunning set designed by John O"Donoghue. Oklahoma! will brighten up these dark winter nights and send you home smiling. It runs in the Tullamore Court Hotel from Monday, January 12, until Friday, January 16, with a special gala performance for patrons and sponsors on Saturday, January 17. Tickets are €18 with concessions for senior citizens and students available for the Monday night show. Booking is now open on 087 6703331 or from the box office at the Bridge Centre.