Oklahoma
at American Heritage School

Reviewed on March 14, 2020

Abbey Alder
Calvary Christian Academy
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Beneath the sunny surface of sweeping prairies and neighborly hospitality lies an undercurrent of longing, secret feelings, and discord. Experience the splendor and struggles emblematic of prairie life just after the turn of the 20th century in American Heritage School's production of "Oklahoma!"

Opening on Broadway in 1943, "Oklahoma!" set the standard, becoming the benchmark of the American modern musical. Based on Lynn Riggs' play, "Green Grow the Lilacs," the groundbreaking musical was a first collaboration between the legendary composer, Richard Rodgers, and book writer/lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II. Their smash hit became the longest-running show of its time in New York, London, and toured the country for over a decade. Warranting several revivals with accolades that include a Pulitzer Prize and Tony Awards, "Oklahoma!" continues to lure audiences back to the Wild West. Amidst the conflicts between cowboys and farmers, relationships evolve. Pursued by two suitors, a sweet farm girl named Laurey finds herself caught between a desirable cowboy, Curly, and nefarious farmhand, Jud Fry. A paralleling love triangle ensues among a flirtatious Ado Annie Carnes, Will Parker, and a reluctant Ali Hakim.

As the wistful farm girl Laurey, Ella Noriega conveyed a complex array of emotions from playing coy to on-edge and frightened. Noriega took command of the stage, demonstrating her vocal prowess in "Many A New Day" and "People Will Say We're In Love." Wearing his heart on his sleeve, Dylan Tuccitto (Curly) gave an electrifying performance with smooth vocals that resonated beautifully. Together, the pair had undeniable chemistry.

With a clear understanding of her coquettish and ditsy character, Adelina Marinello (Ado Annie Carnes) offered a captivating performance that displayed her comedic dexterity. Along with several others, Marinello exhibited pure technique through demanding vocal arrangements such as "I Cain't Say No." Acting as one of Ado Annie's love interests, Michael Guarasci (Will Parker) enlivened the stage with his commitment and bursts of energy. The hesitant groom, Julian Villegas (Ali Hakim) breathed life into his worldly peddler persona, and his comedic moments were a delight. The ensemble's impressive synchronization and realistic interactions enhanced the small-town atmosphere. Despite the ensemble's occasional lack of emotion, their songs achieved a gorgeous vocal blend. The Corps de Ballet, featuring Ysabella Reyes (Dream Laurey), responded to the scene with appropriate facial expressions that translated to their graceful movements.

Technical elements such as set design and orchestrations contributed to beautifully conveying the "bright golden haze on the meadow." The set, designed by Nikolas Serrano, provided an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere and authentic scenescape. The student orchestrations of Leanna Fadel and Co. were executed to perfection, keeping the show lively and engaging. The stage manager, Rachel Taylor, commendably achieved smooth and quick transitions despite her myriad of cues.

Still relevant, regardless of the decade or locality, American Heritage's production "Oklahoma!" illustrates the timeless yearning for a bigger life and the universal appeal of finding true love. "Oklahoma!" is the musical with "plen'y of heart and plen'y of hope."

Sophie Vega
Archbishop Edward A. McCarthy High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Watch a tale of romance, comedy, and drama unfold as a cowboy and a farmhand fight for the favor of young farm girl Laurey, in American Heritage's take on the classic 1943 musical "Oklahoma!"

Adapted from the 1931 play Green Grow the Lilacs by Lynn Rigs, "Oklahoma!" was the product of the musical composition of Richard Rodgers in collaboration with the lyrics and book written by Oscar Hammerstein II. It played over 2,000 performances and remained in the St. James Theater for five years, establishing itself as a defining musical during Broadway's "Golden Age" and as an American classic. In the turn of the twentieth century in Oklahoma, Laurey is an orphan living with her Aunt Eller on a farm who falls into the sight of both Curly McLain, a handsome yet reserved cowboy, and Jud Fry, a boorish farmhand with a violent disposition. When she soon realizes her true feelings for Curly, she finds herself and her love in the line of danger, as Jud tries everything he can to win her over. Simultaneously, Ado Annie, one of Laurey's flirty friends, finds herself conflicted as she suddenly falls head-over-heels for Persian Peddler Ali Hakim. Despite her engagement with her boyfriend Will Parker, she must decide which man she wants to marry.

With stunning tone, confident stage presence, and detailed physicality, Ella Noriega (Laurey) wowed audience members with her impressive vocal technique and engaging portrayal of the young farm girl, in addition to her diction and enunciation despite having a thick southern twang. Alongside her as her romantic counterpart, Dylan Tuccitto (Curley) gave a notable vocal performance with his smooth singing and lush vibrato. Roie Dahan (Jud Fry) displayed a commendable portrayal of his character, from his intimidating physicality to his powerful voice and inflection, as well as a clear showcase of his arc. This translated well to audience members and successfully even left some in discomfort due to his believability.

The set design for the show in all aspects was both practical and functional, as well as stylized appropriately for the period, while showing influence from modern minimalist design techniques. The management of the stage was conducted with organization and fluidity, resulting in seamless scene and set transitions. Notably, the orchestra was professional and balanced, created a vibrant atmosphere that was engaging to listen to and aided the energy of the show splendidly. Although members of the ensemble could have benefited from further developing their individual characters, they danced with grace and purpose, in addition to displaying a commendable vocal blend in harmonies and counterpoint for large numbers such as "Oklahoma," adding to the overall quality of the show.

In the end, American Heritage's production of "Oklahoma!" left audiences smiling and laughing with its superior performance quality and engaging musical numbers.

Leah Tomas
J.P. Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

"There's a bright golden haze on the meadow. The corn is as high as an elephant's eye, and it looks like it's climbing clear up to the sky!" Join the cast of American Heritage High School for their "beautiful" production of "Oklahoma!"

"Oklahoma!" is the first product of infamous duo Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II based on the 1931 play "Green Grow the Lilacs," written by Lynn Riggs. The musical opened on Broadway in March of 1943 at the St. James Theater, winning a special Pulitzer Prize. The production was considered a revolutionary innovation in the world of theater, as it was the first of many to integrate music and dance for the purpose of facilitating the progression of the plot. The story follows handsome cowboy Curly McLain and his efforts to win the affections of beautiful farm girl Laurey over his rival suitor, a fearsome farmhand called Jud.

Dylan Tuccitto (Curly) led the production with compelling characterization, exquisite vocal quality, and an evident understanding of the deep meaning behind his spoken dialogue. Ella Noriega (Laurey) delivered stunning vocal clarity and range along with the effective application of subtle mannerisms for an overall authentic and detail-oriented portrayal of her role. The pair additionally demonstrated genuine chemistry and character development throughout the production.

Adelina Marinello (Ado Annie Carnes) effortlessly captured her character's charm through her delivery of powerful vocals and an impeccable sense of comedic timing. Michael Guarasci (Will Parker) demonstrated captivating characterization in addition to developing an immensely convincing and endearing relationship with Marinello. Roie Dahan (Jud Fry) displayed impressive characterization and made excellent use of physicality to convey the frightening disposition of his character. Irene Newman (Aunt Eller) illustrated the maturity and maternal nature of her character with ease through her utilization of vocal inflection and physicality.

Julian Villegas (Ali Hakim) demonstrated brilliant execution of comedic moments along with an admirably consistent Persian dialect, and Jonah Warhaft (Andrew Carnes) communicated his character's age very well through his speech and physical expression. The ensemble, as a whole, worked as a cohesive unit. The group illustrated the crisp execution of complicated vocal harmonies and immensely technical choreography. Though at times the cast lacked differentiation between characters and onstage combat was relatively ineffective, the company maintained consistent focus along with outstanding Midwestern dialects throughout the production.

The technical elements of this production were nearly flawless. Beautiful set pieces adorned a well-lit stage, and superb costuming seamlessly established distinctions between specific characters in addition to creating an immersive snapshot of the time and rural location in which the story takes place. Set changes flowed quickly and efficiently, and a fantastic student orchestra underscored onstage action with immaculate precision.

American Heritage High School's commendable production of "Oklahoma!" combines lively dance numbers, dazzling vocal arrangements, and phenomenal storytelling for a journey back to "Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweepin' down the plain, and the wavin' wheat can sure smell sweet when the wind comes right behind the rain!"

Gabriela Phillips
Cooper City High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Delve into a world of romantic tension and experience the lengths to which people will go for the person that they love in American Heritage High School's production of "Oklahoma!"

With music by Richard Rodgers and book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein, "Oklahoma!" changed the nature of Broadway forever. Incorporating both a dancing and singing ensemble into the show revolutionized musicals. Based on Lynn Riggs Green Grow the Lilacs, the show has 4 Broadway revivals and won the Tony Award for Best Musical Revival in 2019. Telling the story of Laurey and her love interest Curly, "Oklahoma!" follows the relationships of various couples and explores the themes of love.

Playing the innocent farm girl Laurey, Ella Noriega's dedication to the role was notable. Her attention to detail and mannerisms when talking to characters such as Curly exemplify her well-rounded acting abilities and realism when it came to the role. Showcasing her beautiful voice in songs such as "Many a New Day," Noriega's accent never faltered throughout the entirety of the show. She remained consistent in her choices, and formed a genuine relationship with her love interest Curly (Dylan Tuccitto). The two complemented each other, and their chemistry was seen in their number "People Will Say We're in Love" and the reprise. Playing the outcast Jud Fry, Roie Dahan's commitment was clear, and his investment in winning over Laurey was always evident.

With a bubbly and romantic demeanor, Ado Annie (Adelina Marinello) is always seeking love and hopes to please those around her. With beaming energy, Marinello let her character's flirtatious personality shine through in her number "I Cain't Say No!" During the show Ado Annie has her sights set on two men, Will Parker (Michael Guarasci) and Ali Hakim (Julian Villegas), both of which she hopes to marry in the future. Marinello and Guarasci's relationship was very naturalistic, and the two wonderfully portrayed the chemistry of their budding romance, their voices complimented each other as seen in the song "All Er' Nuthin."

The ensemble remained devoted to their roles within the show. Their harmonies blended beautifully, best showcased in their finale "Oklahoma." The corps de ballet should be commended for maintaining consistent energy throughout the dances, and mirroring the tension of what was going on in the real world. The boys in the song "Kansas City" also did an excellent job of keeping strong facial expressions and techniques throughout the number.

Technically, the show did an excellent job of immersing the audience into the world of "Oklahoma!" The set (Nikolas Serrano) was very well executed and was utilized wonderfully on the stage. Stage management (Rachel Taylor) should be commended for the efficient scene changes and transitions, as well as the punctual cues. The orchestra did an incredible job in the pit, always ensuring that they were never overpowering the actors.

With radiating energy and genuine relationships, American Heritage High School's Production of "Oklahoma!" truly showcased the charming nature of the production.

Alonso Millan
South Plantation High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

In their take on the beloved western tale of love, dance, and music, American Heritage School absolutely shines with Oklahoma.

Oklahoma marked the first collaboration between the legendary Rodgers and Hammerstein, making its Broadway debut in 1943. Oklahoma was the first "book" musical, using dance and song to further progress the story. Centered around Laurey, a farm girl in a love triangle with the charming Curly and intimidating Jud, Oklahoma takes us on an exciting and romantic musical journey.

American Heritage School's production of Oklahoma was a tremendous feat. With outstanding vocal performances across the board, quick-witted and hilarious standout characters, and an impressive orchestra and set, the show was exciting and fun throughout the night.

Leading the show was Dylan Tuccito as Curly. From the moment he first began singing off-stage for "Oh, What A Beautiful Mornin'," Tuccitto delivered a knockout vocal performance. Never faltering in his singing, he and Ella Noriega (Laurey) blended voices together beautifully. Noriega's technique was impeccable, effortlessly gliding through even the most difficult of high notes without any noticeable strain. The two's chemistry was nice, creating a believable blossoming romance for the audience.

Roie Dahan must be commended for his stellar turn as Jud Fry. Dahan's physicality and voice were on point at all times, wonderfully encapsulating the bitter and jaded nature of the character. Conversely, Michael Guarasci (Will Parker) and Adelina Marinello (Ado Annie Carnes) brought lightness and comedy to the show. Both Guarasci and Marinello were a joy to watch, and their sweet and turbulent romance was ever-present, especially in the standout number "All Er Nothin'." The Oklahoma Citizens were also a highlight of the night, nailing choreography and harmonies without fail. A standout member of the ensemble was Kevaughn Reid, portraying Cord Elam. Reid instantly drew your eyes to him, whether he was the focus of the scene or not, with his exceptional dance technique and impactful facial expressions. Throughout the show, however, diction was a significant issue with the cast. Many lines were lost and difficult to understand. At times, some character's physicality and acting choices were not as strong as they could have been. Despite this, the cast must be commended for their energetic performances and outstanding vocals.

The Oklahoma Pit Orchestra was nothing short of perfect. Throughout the night, there was not a single noticeable slip-up or mistake, an impressive feat for a high school orchestra. They complimented the actors wonderfully, as well as aided scenes such as the Dream Ballet, where no dialogue was present. The set design, by Nikolas Serrano, was also another standout aspect of the show. Serrano's design fits the show very well, with the rustic nature of it further immersing the audience into the world of Oklahoma.

It was a night full of romance, country twang, and powerful vocals. American Heritage School's production of Oklahoma was memorable across the board.

Cristian Velasquez
Cypress Bay High School
Submitted for publication to American Heritage

A cozy wooden farmhouse and steel wind vane are laced with hues of apricot and honey as the midwestern sky rises, and the silhouette of the mountains running along the horizon cast a shadow over the farmland. The cool southern breeze blows by as the tall grass rustles in the wind, setting the mood for American Heritage School's riveting production of "Oklahoma!"

Based on the 1931 play "Green Grow The Lilacs," "Oklahoma!" premiered on Broadway in 1943 with lyrics and book by Oscar Hammerstein II and music by Richard Rogers. Set in Western Indian Territory, "Oklahoma" follows the love story of Curly, a charming cowboy, and Laurey, a headstrong farm girl; however, the rivalry between the local farmers and the cowmen causes some complications on their path to true love.

Ella Noriega portrayed the spirited and spunky Laurey. Noriega demonstrated exceptional vocals and impeccable technique, most notably in her song "Many A New Day." Her subtle mannerisms and characterization choices created a believable performance and genuine character. Embodying Curly, Laurey's charismatic love interest, Dylan Tuccitto additionally exemplified remarkably clean vocals and a clear understanding of his character. The charming chemistry between the two was especially prevalent in their duet, "People Will Say We're In Love."

Ado Annie Carnes, the flirtatious and bubbly farm girl, was captured by Adelina Marinello. Marinello's facial expressions and physicality contributed immensely to the authenticity of her character. Her powerful and impressive vocal abilities were most prominent in her lively and humourous solo, "I Cain't Say No!" Portraying the dimwitted Will Parker, Michael Guarasci remarkably embodied the infectious comedic aspects of his character, making his performance all the more compelling. Marinello and Guarasci displayed playful chemistry in their song, "All Er Nothin."

With unwavering energy and tight harmonies, the ensemble of the production remained engaging throughout the entirety of the performance without distracting from the lead performers. Although there was a lack of differentiation between the ensemble characters, the consistent accents and enthusiasm made up for the lack of variety. A standout performance among them was Julian Villegas as the Persian peddler, Ali Hakim. Villegas exhibited impeccable comedic abilities and remained consistent in his accent, contributing to the believability of his performance.

The technical aspects of the performance flawlessly executed the midwestern setting of the production. Stage management must be commended for the accuracy of the numerous lighting cues throughout the production and the seamless scenic transitions. The beautiful set designs admirably brought to life the midwestern ambiance of the production. Additionally, the orchestra accompanied the actors extraordinarily, bringing the musical tone of the countryside to life.

In their enchanting and sincere production of "Oklahoma!", American Heritage School proves that although the road to true love may be all but smooth, if we set aside our differences, "The Farmer and the Cowman" can be friends.