In their 56 years, this certainly wasn’t the first time that STC Musical Society entertained with a production of Oklahoma, but, dare I say that it was one of their most successful?

In the capable hands of director, Sandra Hourahine and musical director, Sian Davies, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s first collaboration proved as fresh and innocent as when first premiered on Broadway back in 1943.

It’s success depends wholly on the execution of the score, and from the opening bars of Curly’s, Oh What a Beautiful Mornin’, it was clear that this was going to be something special.

The rich, deep bass of Luke Farley resounded through the auditorium and his first duet, People Will Say We’re In Love with feisty love interest, Laurey, played sensitively by the talented Eloise Rossiter, was both credible and moving.

This was a cast of strength, as demonstrated superbly by Ruth Barton, in the spirited role of Aunt Eller. She effortlessly took the lead and kept both the action and vocals on track.

The rousing, almost anthemic numbers, The Surrey with the Fringe on the Top and of course Oklahoma were well within the range of a large and experienced cast, and of course, were executed perfectly.

This musical clearly had a place in most of the audience’s heart, and it was refreshing to hear them singing along (albeit under their breath).

Honest and uplifting....that bright, golden haze has not dimmed with time.