Oklahoma! Is one of the most exciting and long-lasting shows on Broadway. Oklahoma! First opened on Broadway, March 13, 1943. It is hard to believe that it remains so popular now 78 years later. Written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, Oklahoma! captured people’s imagination with a love story from the farm in the brand-new state of Oklahoma. It is a musical filled with exciting songs and amazing dancing. To this day, when the song, “Oklahoma” is played, our state collectively stands and sings along. Oklahoma! is a powerful story that still captures our hearts today.
I remember the first time I saw Oklahoma! on stage. I was 18 years old and attending the play at OCU. I had heard the music before, but never saw it on stage. The singing was fantastic, and the dancing was AMAZING! The dancing was athletic, graceful and kept the audience on the edge of their seats. The show was some of the best dancing I had ever witnessed.
In 2019, several years after I first saw Oklahoma! and 75 years after it first opened on Broadway, Oklahoma!opened with a new twist. It was a re-imagined show, and it won several Tony Awards. Perhaps the thing that stood out the most to me was the fact this show, that is so well known for its’ athletic dancing, now had an inclusive cast, including a member in a wheelchair. Ali Stroker took the stage in Oklahoma! as Ado Annie. Ali is paralyzed from the chest down, after a car accident. In 2019, Ali became the first person in a wheelchair to win a Tony award. Ali won the Tony for best actress in a musical.
The revival of Oklahoma! teaches us one important thing, with a little imagination, we can open opportunities for so many. This show is no longer just for the athletic dancers. So many more can now participate. As a people of faith, let us look to Oklahoma! as an example that we too, with a little imagination, can help others be part of so many wonderful opportunities. We are all God’s children, and we should work to include all in the family of faith. When we make sure that all are welcome, O what a beautiful day that will be.
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
