Oklahoma! – Bradford Alhambra

WHEN Oklahoma! was first performed in 1943 it was revolutionary – using songs to drive forward story and character, blending deadly serious themes with the more usual light material.

And, amidst the drama and comedy, some of the most tuneful, romantic songs Broadway had ever heard.

Seven decades later, endlessly regurgitated by amateur groups and dusted down every few years by the professionals, Oklahoma! risks being a museum piece.

But in Bradford the museum is a couple of miles up the road. The Alhambra is a theatre, and while traditional, this production of the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic is as fresh, relevant and entertaining as it was for the original audiences.

We’re on the frontier of the Old West and cowboy Jud loves farm girl Laurey while hired hand Jud wants his evil way. Elsewhere, promising comedy rather than tragedy, flirty Ado Annie is torn between dependable Will and peddler Ali Hakim.

The first act lasts 90 minutes but flies by, with song after irresistible song, bursts of infectious dance, and not a wasted word. The second act, half the length and dragging only a little, takes the story to its inevitable conclusion with time for lots of charm and more songs.

l Until Saturday. Visit Bradford.theatres.co.uk or call 01274 432000 to book tickets.

David Knights