Despite this being a British production of an "Amurrican" show I think it is far better than the original movie. It doesn't have the hokey accents, the singers do their own dancing (and very well too!), and the character interpretations are more real. I especially liked Laurie as a tomboy: it makes her reluctant and confused response to courtship more natural than the spoiled petulance shown in the Hollywood version. Aunt Eller is a person instead of a stereotype - you can tell this woman has had a life. Jud is more rounded, the pain and social confusion underlying his brutality shown clearly. And Hugh Jackman gives Curly a sunniness that is much more charming than the knowing and somewhat manipulative characterization produced by Hollywood. A must-see! What I wouldn't give to see this team make Carousel!
Review of Oklahoma!
