With a spring in their step and a song in their hearts, cowboys and farmers alike have chased their destinies to a land that promises love, opportunity and a brighter future. This joyful production is set in an all-African American town in the early days of the Oklahoma Territory.
The 75th Anniversary of the beloved musical
The first collaboration by the legendary team of Rodgers and Hammerstein became a landmark musical for its rollicking music and stunning dance numbers, and this joyful presentation will solidify why it has stood the test of time.
Directed by Theatre Company Artistic Director Chris Coleman in his Denver debut and choreographed by Dominique Kelley (dancer in La La Land and Bring in ‘Da Noise, Bring in ‘Da Funk), our production will showcase an overlooked piece of American history as one small community stakes its claim on a place that is full of hope.
LEARN MORE
The musical Oklahoma! takes place in 1906, shortly before Oklahoma Territory became Oklahoma State. While the history of westward expansion leading up to statehood may be familiar, African American history in the Territory is far less commonly known.
Download ‘The History of African American Towns in Oklahoma‘ to learn more.
Music by | Richard Rodgers |
Book and Lyrics by | Oscar Hammerstein II |
Based on the play “Green Grow the Lilacs” by | Lynn Riggs |
Original Dances by | Agnes de Mille |
Directed by | Chris Coleman |
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Type: Musical, Drama, Family Friendly
Advisory: Contains mild violence and adult themes. This production utilizes haze, strobe lighting effects, and simulated gunshots.
Two simulated gunshots fired approximately one hour into Act I
One simulated gunshot fired approximately three minutes into Act II
Producing Partner: June Travis
Pre-Show Creative Team Perspectives
Fri, Sep 7 at 6pm | The Jones
Get an exclusive insider’s perspective before the show when you join us for a free, professionally moderated discussion with the creative team.
Cast Perspectives
Sun, Sep 16 at 1:30pm
Join a fun and engaging discussion with the actors after the matinee.
Personal Captioning Devices
Sep 18 – Oct 14
These handheld tablet devices configured with closed captioning software enable users to enjoy private captioning services in any seating location. The devices will be available at the performances listed above and may be checked out with a photo ID at the Patron Services desk in the lobby (subject to availability, first-come first-served).
Higher Education Perspectives
Wed, Sep 19 at 6:30pm
Participate in a topical discussion after the performance led by Jameka B. Lewis, Senior Librarian at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library.
Accessible Performance
Sun, Sep 30 at 1:30pm
Before selecting seats, enter the appropriate code noted below for the services you require in the Promotional Code box.
Sign Language Interpretation: ASL
Audio Description: AUDIO
Open Captioning: OCAP
Learn more about access services
IN THE NEWS
Oklahoma! review: New DCPA artistic director’s all-black version challenges, comforts
– The Denver Post
Review: Oh, What a Beautiful Production of Oklahoma!
– Westword
Oklahoma! Puts an Inclusive Spin On A Classic
– Outfront
“It Translates Seamlessly To Our Cast.”
– The Ensemblist
Check Out Denver Center’s All-African American Production of Oklahoma!
– Playbill
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