One of my favorite areas of study in theatre is the history of the American musical, particularly the Golden Age of Broadway. While scholars may debate what truly constitutes the “first” musical or which work most shaped the art form as we know it today, there is little doubt that Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! stands as one of the most significant works in musical theatre history. It was the first show to fully integrate dance, acting, and music into a cohesive and unified story.
Written in 1943, Oklahoma! marked the first collaboration between Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II—the legendary duo who would go on to create South Pacific, Cinderella (performed by our Drama Department in 2022), Carousel, and The Sound of Music. This partnership came at a transitional moment for both of them. Rodgers had largely parted ways with his former collaborator Lorenz Hart, and Hammerstein was recovering from a series of Hollywood disappointments after earlier successes like Show Boat. Though both men were well-established, they were navigating a period of uncertainty.
Amid a nation at war, Rodgers and Hammerstein were given the opportunity to adapt Lynn Riggs’ play Green Grow the Lilacs into a musical. What emerged was something entirely new. With innovative storytelling choices, including Agnes de Mille’s groundbreaking dream ballet, Oklahoma! redefined what musical theatre could be. Songs no longer paused the action—they advanced the plot and deepened character. Opening during World War II, the show brought light and joy to audiences, ran for over 2,000 performances (an extraordinary achievement at the time), and earned a special Pulitzer Prize.
So why share this history in a director’s message? Because understanding the context of Oklahoma! helps illuminate both its significance and its challenges. As we first approached the text, it became clear that some elements of the show—its dialogue, themes, and perspectives—feel dated to a modern audience. I likened this experience to working on Shakespeare: while the language may be more accessible, it still reflects a different time. Written in 1943 and set in 1907, Oklahoma! naturally sounds and feels different from the world we live in today.
Rather than avoiding these challenges, our cast and crew engaged with them through thoughtful, mature conversations. Together, we arrived at an important idea: just because a piece of theatre is old or dated does not mean it should not be performed. Instead, it invites us to examine it more deeply.
To bring fresh life to this production, we focused on a central theme: light versus darkness, and the role community plays in shaping our sense of self-worth. Throughout the story, we explored how community can lift individuals into the light, but also how it can push others toward isolation and darkness. We hope these ideas are reflected in the performances, design choices, and storytelling you see on stage.
On a personal note, I have always associated Oklahoma! with the number fifteen. I was fifteen years old when I performed in this show as a freshman in high school, and now, in my fifteenth year of teaching with Goochland County Public Schools, I am incredibly grateful to revisit it with such a talented group of students.
To our cast, crew, and pit musicians: thank you for your dedication, hard work, and artistry. To our student leaders and tenacious senior class: your leadership has been invaluable. And to the many adults who have supported this production: thank you for helping bring this show to life and for being a community that helps me find the light when I need it most.
I hope you enjoy this production of Oklahoma! Thank you for being here and supporting our show!
Neil Burch
Theatre Teacher/Director
Goochland County Public Schools
