Oklahoma!

Definition

Oklahoma! is a landmark Broadway musical that premiered in 1943, featuring music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. The show was groundbreaking for its integration of songs and storytelling, setting a new standard for American musicals. It tells the story of the romance between a cowboy and a farm girl in the early 1900s, highlighting themes of community and the American frontier.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oklahoma! was the first musical to feature an integrated score, where music, lyrics, and dance were essential to the plot.
2. The show was adapted from Lynn Riggs' play 'Green Grow the Lilacs' and opened at the St. James Theatre in New York City.
3. The iconic song 'Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'' is one of the show's most famous numbers, establishing a sense of optimism and setting the tone for the musical.
4. Oklahoma! received the first-ever Tony Award for Best Musical in 1944, solidifying its place in Broadway history.
5. The success of Oklahoma! influenced numerous subsequent musicals, contributing to the development of the American musical theatre genre.

Review Questions

• How did Oklahoma! change the landscape of Broadway musicals during its time?
  • Oklahoma! revolutionized Broadway by being the first musical to fully integrate its score with the storyline. This meant that songs were not just standalone performances but were woven into the fabric of the plot, enhancing character development and emotional impact. This set a new standard for future musicals, inspiring composers and lyricists to create works where music and narrative were interdependent.
• What are some key themes presented in Oklahoma!, and how do they reflect American culture in the early 20th century?
  • Key themes in Oklahoma! include love, community, and the struggle between tradition and change. The musical captures the spirit of the American frontier during a time of growth and conflict. It reflects a sense of optimism about new beginnings while also addressing social tensions, particularly through the rivalry between cowboy Curly and farmer Jud Fry. These themes resonate with American values of independence and resilience.
• Evaluate the impact of Oklahoma! on future American musicals and its legacy in contemporary theatre.
  • Oklahoma! had a profound impact on future American musicals by establishing conventions that are still followed today. Its innovative use of an integrated score influenced countless productions that came after it, leading to more cohesive storytelling in musical theatre. The show's legacy is evident in contemporary works that blend music and narrative seamlessly, showcasing how Oklahoma! set a precedent for artistic collaboration within the genre.

Related terms

Musical Theatre: A form of theatrical performance that combines songs, spoken dialogue, acting, and dance to tell a story.

Book Musical: A type of musical that has a strong narrative structure and integrates songs into the story, as seen in Oklahoma!.

Integrated Musical: A musical where the songs and dances are used to advance the plot and develop characters, instead of being separate entertainment pieces.