Notes From The Director
Oklahoma! is among the most beloved and often-produced works of American theater, and not just musical theater. It has stood the test of time because it is filled with songs that are now so familiar that you might be tempted to sing along. When the strains of the title song are sung we can almost see the sunset over the plains and sweet smell the wheat on the wind.
Oklahoma! looks back on a simpler time when life was not as rushed or as complicated as it is now. It is part of the story of America’s push to become the nation we are now, driven by the courage and endurance of settlers who looked at open country and saw the future. Of course we are looking through the lens of romance, but that is part of the fun.
Bringing a musical to the stage is a joy because of the wonderful people who share the experience. Parents, thank you for the opportunity to work with your kids. They are fantastic. Cast, thank you for being you. Your enthusiasm and dedication are inspiring. Thanks to Ms Baxter, the boosters, Deni and her crew, April, Dave and James who have given their time and talents. Thanks to our three fantastic stage managers who far exceeded expectations and thank you, Aisling for making the actors look good. Without everyone who pitched in so many ways none of this would have been possible. Finally, thank you for being here. We hope you enjoy this production of Oklahoma! Now, on with the show.
- Glenn Patterson
Notes From The Music Director
It takes a village to bring a show together and I am thankful for the village of Abingdon High School. Set crew, stage managers, costumers, choreographers, directors, actors, lighting designers, sound engineers, parent volunteers, student volunteers, and more! Our students, parents, administration, teachers, staff, custodians and community members have given with their hearts to make this production a success. A tremendous amount of thanks goes especially to our Set Designer, Deni Peterson, who is working on her 10th and final musical with Abingdon High School and our audio, visual and promotional guru David Maloney who also marks his 10th production with AHS. Both of these individuals, and many others, have continued to pour their time and love into AHS musical productions even after their students have graduated.
Though Oklahoma! contains some of the most iconic songs in all of musical theater, it is also a work of surprising depth and substance. The cast and crew have dug in and risen to the challenge of bringing this work to life. It is an honor to be a part of their musical theater experience. I have learned so much from them and from our director, Glenn Patterson. My sincerest thanks to him for sharing his wealth of theatrical experience with myself and the students of Abingdon High School.
Thank you for coming to today’s performance and supporting the arts at Abingdon High School!
- Brandy Baxter
