URBANA MIDDLE SCHOOL PRESENTS: OKLAHOMA!

The Wild West comes to Central Illinois in the junior adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved musical, Oklahoma! The action takes place in the early 1900s in the soon-to-become state of Oklahoma.

Rodgers and Hammerstein's first collaboration brings us to Indian Territory, where Curly and Laurey's lively courtship is unfolding. Laurey’s coy refusal of Curly’s invitation to the upcoming social event leads to a date for Laurey and Jud, the morose and lurking farmhand. As the celebrations with the colorful townsfolk ensue, Laurey finally realizes not only her feelings for Curly, but also her misgivings of Jud. As the two men square off, we see how ardent and protective Curly is, and how possessive and dangerous Jud can be. Ultimately, the entire town comes together to celebrate love, life on the prairie and their impending statehood in this junior adaptation of the rich, optimistic American classic.

Directed by UMS teachers Bethany Schmitt (Chorus) and Erin Lodes (Band and Music Technology), the production is a part of the UMS after-school program, SPLASH (Students Playing and Learning After School Hours). Students began learning the material in November, held auditions, and began rehearsal in January.

Performances are held in the Urbana Middle School Cafetorium on Thursday, April 19 at 7pm and Saturday, April 21 at 3pm. Admission is $3 for children/students and $5 for adults. Tickets will be available at the door.

For more information about the musical, including rehearsal schedules and announcements, visit https://sites.google.com/site/umsbovine.

Information provided by the Urbana School District.