The question “What is the play Oklahoma about?” delves into a cornerstone of American musical theatre, a work that redefined storytelling on the stage and continues to captivate audiences with its vibrant portrayal of frontier life, love, and the spirit of a burgeoning nation. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s seminal musical, Oklahoma!, is far more than just a collection of catchy tunes and dance numbers; it is a profound exploration of human relationships, the challenges of settling new territories, and the birth of a state. Set in the titular Oklahoma territory in 1906, on the cusp of statehood, the musical masterfully weaves together themes of courtship, rivalry, community, and the optimism that fueled westward expansion.
A Frontier Romance and Its Undercurrents
At its heart, Oklahoma! is a classic boy-meets-girl story, but with a depth and complexity that set it apart. The central narrative follows the spirited young rancher, Curly McLain, and the charming, independent farm girl, Laurey Williams. Their courtship is the engine that drives the plot, marked by playful banter, burgeoning affection, and the inevitable misunderstandings that arise in a close-knit community. Their journey from tentative attraction to deep love is punctuated by iconic songs like “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” which sets a tone of idyllic beauty, and “People Will Say We’re in Love,” a witty duet that captures the delightful awkwardness of falling for someone.
However, the romance is not without its obstacles. A significant source of dramatic tension comes from Jud Fry, a menacing and resentful farmhand who harbors a dangerous obsession with Laurey. Jud represents the darker, more unsettling aspects of frontier life, a stark contrast to the optimism embodied by Curly and Laurey. His presence introduces an element of menace and danger, highlighting the real-life challenges faced by women in isolated communities and the ever-present threat of violence. The dynamic between Curly and Jud for Laurey’s affection is a central conflict, culminating in a dramatic and pivotal climax.
Beyond the primary romantic arc, the musical also explores the blossoming relationship between Ado Annie Carnes, a flirtatious and somewhat naive young woman, and Will Parker, a simple cowboy. Their storyline provides comic relief and a lighter, more uncomplicated view of romance, set against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal desires. The inclusion of Ali Hakim, a Persian peddler, adds a touch of exoticism and introduces a different perspective on relationships and commerce in the territory, further enriching the tapestry of characters.
Thematic Depth Beyond Romance
While romance is a key element, Oklahoma! delves into broader themes that resonate with the American experience:
- The Spirit of the Frontier: The musical captures the spirit of resilience, hard work, and optimism that characterized the settlement of the American West. The characters are pioneers, forging a new life in a challenging yet promising landscape. The setting itself—the vast, open plains of Oklahoma—is almost a character in its own right, symbolizing opportunity and freedom.
- Community and Belonging: The narrative highlights the importance of community, particularly in isolated frontier settings. The characters rely on each other for support, celebration, and mutual understanding. The famous “barn raising” scene, while not explicitly depicted, is a metaphorical representation of the collective effort required to build a new society. The annual “box social,” where women prepare baskets of food to be auctioned off to the highest bidder (often a suitor), serves as a central social event and a mechanism for character interaction and plot development.
- The Dawn of Statehood: The play is set at a pivotal moment in American history: the transition from a territory to a state. This historical context imbues the story with a sense of anticipation and progress. The characters are not just building farms and families; they are contributing to the very foundation of a new state. The “Oklahoma” medley, a powerful and stirring finale, encapsulates this sense of pride and collective identity.
Innovation in Musical Theatre
- Oklahoma! is widely regarded as a groundbreaking work in musical theatre for several reasons:
Integration of Song, Dance, and Drama
One of the most significant innovations of Oklahoma! was its seamless integration of music, dance, and plot. Unlike earlier musicals, where songs and dances often felt like interpolated diversions, in Oklahoma!, they are essential to advancing the narrative and revealing character.
- Dream Ballet: Agnes de Mille’s choreography, particularly the groundbreaking “Dream Ballet” sequence, was revolutionary. This extended dance number, depicting Laurey’s inner turmoil and subconscious desires regarding Curly and Jud, allowed for psychological depth to be expressed through movement. It was a bold departure from traditional musical theatre, proving that dance could be a powerful storytelling tool.
- Character Revelation through Song: Rodgers and Hammerstein masterfully used songs to reveal the characters’ inner thoughts and feelings. “Surrey with the Fringe on Top,” for instance, is not just a romantic song but also a demonstration of Curly’s playful nature and his desire to impress Laurey. “Lonely Room,” sung by Jud, offers a chilling glimpse into his disturbed psyche and his violent intentions.
Character Development and Realism
The characters in Oklahoma! are more fully realized and complex than many predecessors. They are not mere archetypes but flawed, relatable individuals grappling with universal human emotions. This psychological realism, combined with the integrated storytelling, set a new standard for musical theatre, paving the way for the “book musical”—a musical in which the songs are fully integrated into the story.
The Enduring Legacy of Oklahoma!
Since its premiere in 1943, Oklahoma! has enjoyed countless revivals and productions worldwide, solidifying its status as a timeless classic. Its influence on subsequent musical theatre is immeasurable. Composers and lyricists learned from its sophisticated structure, its lyrical richness, and its ability to explore serious themes within the framework of entertainment.
The musical’s enduring appeal lies in its optimistic spirit, its heartfelt romance, and its vivid evocation of a specific time and place in American history. It speaks to the universal human desires for love, belonging, and the pursuit of happiness, set against the backdrop of a nation on the rise. Whether experienced on stage, through film, or via cast recordings, Oklahoma! remains a testament to the power of storytelling, music, and dance to capture the essence of the human condition and the spirit of a new beginning. It is a celebration of the American dream and the enduring power of hope, set to some of the most beloved music ever written.
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