I thought the article (and what it links to) is fascinating. For the record, I have really enjoyed most of the OKLAHOMAs I have seen (high school versions, college productions, regionals, revivals, et al). I LOVED the Fish revisal of it-- thought it was bracing, fascinating, spellbinding theatre. Yeah, it was a decidedly dark and despairing view of the American frontier, but it was challenging and beautifully performed. Even at Circle in the Square, there were walkouts and complaints. But I loved it (and so did my then-college aged daughter, who thought it was fascinating-- first time she ever said that about a Golden Age show).
That said, it looks like the tour was NOT staged in the round, but in traditional proscenium theatres (and huge ones, at that). I have no idea how the show could work in those locations-- at Circle, the intimacy and intensity were key to the experience. I'm shocked at how many posters here seem offended by the Fish's approach-- I love seeing how new directors approach long-established materials. I'm not worried that we won't be able to see traditional OKLAHOMAs in the future-- there'll be plenty of them. I hope we get more transgressive versions, too.
CABARET is one of my favorite shows-- the movie is one of my all-time favorites, the original stage production (which I've only seen in revivals) is wonderful, and Mendes' revival is fierce and unforgettable. I hope all these versions continue to live on and get revived and revised and revisited. |
