THIS 54-year-old favourite was presented in a traditional way, with no gimmicks, by producer/choreographer Steve Eckersley. Last night's audience liked it that way.

Scenery and costumes were very good - I appreciated the surrey with the fringe on top - but St Paul's Oklahoma! was essentially a musical success. Tuneful voices were not confined to the principals, and the two musicians under musical director Peter Barnett contributed considerably to this opening performance.

Louise Cohen as Laurey confirmed that she has become a confident leading lady with a strong, but sweet voice, and a relaxed acting style. Many a New Day and Out of my Dreams are difficult songs to deliver convincingly, but she succeeded.

As Curly, her beau, Stephen Brennan, had plenty of opportunity to air his vocal talent. I liked him best in The Surrey with a Fringe on Top.

There was an excellent scene between Curly and Jud Fry (Joe Marsden) with a good rendition of Pore Jud is Daid by Brennan and a subtle acting performance by Marsden. The latter has a striking stage presence, which dominated the scenes in which he appeared.

Paul Cohen, who played Will Parker, did some of the choreography and proved a considerable dancer himself with an unusual approach to a tap routine about Kansas City.

As his girlfriend, Ado Annie, Jennifer Carney had the sort of voice associated with dizzy blondes and a good sense of comedy.

Scott Ashby gave his all to the role of Ali Hakim, the pedlar, and clearly had audience appeal.

The part of Aunt Eller under used 'Christine Catherall's rich voice, but she was still ideal in that role.

This is a show with a high feel-good factor and St Paul's did it proud. Doreen Crowther

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