Between Lee Vinson’s choreography, Joe Gimpel’s musical direction, Marinella Savarese’s vocal direction and Jerry Tracy’s usual intuitive artistic direction which brings out the best in this diverse ensemble, “Oklahoma!” is an absolute must-see for Aloha Theatre patrons. The show runs
BY KIMBERLY HUFF
SPECIAL TO WEST HAWAII TODAY
Directing a cast of forty actors/singers/dancers cannot be an easy task for even the most talented of directors, yet somehow Jerry Tracy makes it seem so artistically effortless. “Oklahoma!” is Aloha Theatre’s current production, and Tracy’s latest main-stage achievement delivers big.
“Oklahoma!” opens on the plains of the nation’s 46th state during the year 1906 when it was still a territory. The story follows two young couples in love, a golden hearted aunt, a crafty peddler, and a lonely farm-hand. As they eventually determine who will marry who in this small close-knit community, heart-tugging ballads, dramatic moments (no “spoilers” here), and humorous scripted and directorial choices all add up to a rip-roaring good time.
Making his Aloha Theatre debut is Dave Parsons of Kailua-Kona as Curly. Parsons performance is nothing short of striking. His voice, characterization and commitment to the role are superb. His half of the opening number “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'” sets just the right tone for the show: full and dynamic. During the number “Pore Jud is Dead,” chills abound on audience arms. Throughout the performance, Parsons remains true to Curly, delivering one of the most honest interpretations in a musical’s leading man.
Turning in more than a solid performance as Ado Annie is Katelyn Howard, a senior at Kealakehe High School. This remarkable young actress blows the audience away as the undecided town fickle. It is not enough to say that her voice and acting stun. Rather, it is the overall product Howard delivers that truly shines: her stage presence and overall portrayal of Ado Annie go beyond the call of talent. Every choice in Howard’s characterization is creative and bold. Each song and dance number she presents is executed with a stage presence unrivaled in the show, and she absolutely owns the stage. Bravo.
Also turning in notable performances are Francine Alexander of Kona as Aunt Eller, Miguel Montez of Kailua-Kona as Jud Fry, DK Place of Kona as Ali Hakim, and Johnny Gomez of Kona as Will Parker. Alexander offers a truly developed sense of a loving aunt who has many sides to her personality. She is strong yet gentle. Alexander’s acting and singing talents truly round out the talented cast, and she is as lovely to watch as she is to hear. Montez manages to evoke a true sense of compassion for the lonely misguided farm hand, which is not easy to do. His characterization of Jud is truly gut-wrenching. Place’s on-stage instincts provide a really nice sense of comedic timing as he clearly has some fun with the role of the “peddler.” Last but not least, Gomez proves himself worthy as a triple threat: the young man can sing, dance and act with some serious heart and enthusiasm. His interpretation of Will Parker is a perfect match for the exuberance of Howard’s Ado Annie.
The show is not without a few questions: the young Native Americans who are seen in the beginning and throughout are never fully explained. Granted the script calls for their presence, however some sort of assimilation into the context of the play might be of some value. Additionally, the character of Gertie played by Ruby Rose Savarese of Kealakekua is distinguishable by a “distinctive (and annoying) laugh.” This is how it is billed in the program, and thus presumably in the script. However, there is a fine line not to be crossed between following stage directions and milking. Savarese’s interpretation unfortunately crosses that line. The laugh honestly overshadows any characterization Savarese might have lent the role, and thus proves to be distracting beyond the point of upstaging.
The set, lighting, costumes and sound complement the marvelous production. Special sound effects are well timed, and vibrant colors that pop out balanced with a few muted tones everywhere demonstrate thoughtfulness and creativity in the overall design, thus adding texture for the audience’s eye.
Finally, not to be overlooked is the extremely talented orchestra. Led by the musically adept Joel Gimpel, the musicians add some of the finest touches in this well-rounded production. They play beautifully and skillfully, never outdoing the singers but only always enhancing the overall musical experience.
Between Lee Vinson’s choreography, Joe Gimpel’s musical direction, Marinella Savarese’s vocal direction and Jerry Tracy’s usual intuitive artistic direction which brings out the best in this diverse ensemble, “Oklahoma!” is an absolute must-see for Aloha Theatre patrons. The show runs three hours (this includes a 15 minute intermission), and plays Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m .now through March 11. Tickets are $20 for general public, and $17 for students and seniors. Tickets are on sale now at AlohaTheatre.com or by calling 322-9924.
