Music composed by Richard Rodgers. Lyrics written by Oscar Hammerstein II.
Principal cast includes: Alfred Drake (Curly); Celeste Holm (Ado Annie Carnes); Joan Roberts (Laurey); Howard Da Silva (Jud Fry); Lee Dixon (Will Parker).
Reissue producers: Andy McKaie, Ron O'Brien, Max O. Preeo.
Recorded in 1943 and 1944. Originally released on the Decca label. Includes liner notes by Max O. Preeo.
Rodgers & Hammerstein's adaptation of Lynn Riggs' play GREE GROW THE LILACS marked the birth of the modern musical. Music, lyrics, and choreography came together as never before to tell a uniquely American story, and enthralled audiences flocked to the show, breaking Broadway box-office records. In keeping with the production's pioneering spirit, it was also the first instance in which the entire cast was brought to the studio to record the show's musical numbers, thus originating the original cast recording. The concept proved highly successful--it wasn't long after the initial release of six-discs of 78s that another release featuring several songs not included in original set was brought to market. Eventually, the recording was transferred to LP, but without the additional songs; not until the 50th anniversary CD reissue were all the tracks available in one place.
While most of the cast, with the possible exception of Celeste Holme, may no longer be well known, the songs are immortal. "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'," "Surrey With the Fringe on Top," and, of course, "Oklahoma" are classics of American song. If there is any question as to what has made this show a classic, the answer is right here.
