Oklahoma!

Definition

Oklahoma! is a groundbreaking musical that premiered in 1943, marking a significant shift in the development of musical theatre by integrating songs and dances into the story. This show, with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, was one of the first to emphasize character development through music and established the concept of a 'book musical', where the songs advance the plot and develop the characters. Its innovative approach and storytelling paved the way for future musicals and helped set new standards in the genre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oklahoma! was based on Lynn Riggs' play 'Green Grow the Lilacs', which provided a foundation for its plot and characters.
2. The musical features iconic songs such as 'Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'' and 'People Will Say We're in Love', which are now classics in American musical theatre.
3. Oklahoma! was the first musical to win a Tony Award for Best Musical, solidifying its status as a cornerstone of Broadway.
4. The choreography by Agnes de Mille played a crucial role in bringing the characters' emotions to life, making dance an integral part of storytelling in musicals.
5. The show's themes of community, love, and conflict between tradition and modernity resonated deeply with audiences during its time and continue to be relevant today.

Review Questions

• How did Oklahoma! change the way musicals were created and perceived in terms of storytelling?
  • Oklahoma! revolutionized musicals by integrating songs and dances directly into the narrative, establishing what is known as a 'book musical'. Unlike earlier musicals where songs were often separate from the story, this show demonstrated that music could enhance character development and advance the plot. This shift not only changed how audiences experienced musicals but also influenced future composers and lyricists to focus on cohesive storytelling within their works.
• Discuss the significance of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II's collaboration in Oklahoma! and its impact on musical theatre.
  • The partnership between Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II in Oklahoma! was significant as it set a new standard for musical theatre. Their ability to blend lyrics, music, and story into a seamless production showcased how powerful narratives could be when combined with compelling songs. This collaboration not only elevated their careers but also inspired countless writers and composers who followed, leading to more sophisticated and thematically rich musicals.
• Evaluate how Oklahoma! reflects the social issues of its time while maintaining its relevance in contemporary society.
  • Oklahoma! reflects social issues such as community values, the clash between traditional lifestyles and modernization, and romantic relationships amidst conflicts. While it captures the essence of American life in the early 20th century, its themes remain relevant today as they address universal human experiences. The portrayal of rural life versus urbanization continues to resonate with audiences, making Oklahoma! a timeless piece that sparks conversations about change and continuity in society.

Related terms

Book Musical: A type of musical theatre that integrates songs and dances into a cohesive story, ensuring that the musical numbers are essential to character development and plot advancement.

Richard Rodgers: An American composer known for his collaborations with lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II, which produced some of the most influential musicals in American theatre history, including Oklahoma!.

Oscar Hammerstein II: A prominent American lyricist and librettist who, alongside Richard Rodgers, revolutionized musical theatre with works like Oklahoma!, introducing complex characters and themes.