REVIEW: I CAN’T SAY NO TO THIS OKLAHOMA!
LMS Hits All the Right Notes with Oklahoma! at the Millennium Forum
There’s something truly special about a society that can draw in audiences year after year – and after 62 years, LMS is still going strong. Their latest production of Oklahoma! at the Millennium Forum is a testament to the enduring power of local theatre done exceptionally well.
From the start, it was clear this wasn’t just your average amateur production. LMS is undoubtedly punching above its weight when it comes to musical theatre in Northern Ireland. With a cast brimming with youthful talent and seasoned performers alike, this was a vibrant, full-hearted staging of the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic.
Caitlyn Kelly shone as Laurey – a vision of charm and elegance with a voice to match. Her high notes soared effortlessly through the Forum, captivating the audience from her first entrance. Opposite her, Luke de Belder brought warmth, confidence, and just the right amount of swagger to Curly- real curly hair and all! His singing felt natural and easy, embodying the quintessential cowboy hero.
Una Culkin gave a standout performance as Aunt Eller, grounding the show with humour and strength. A true character actress, she anchored the production with warmth and wit.
Amy Astbury brought the house down as Ado Annie – hilarious, lovable, and gloriously dippy. Her comic timing was spot-on, playing brilliantly against Ricky Kyle’s smooth-talking Ali Hakim and Aidan McLaughlin’s sweetly simple Will Parker. Together, they delivered some of the show’s most laugh-out-loud moments.
Matthew Irwin delivered a deliciously dark performance as Jud Fry, adding depth and menace to the role, along with a rich bass vocal that resonated through the theatre.
And then there was the dancing – what a joy! Choreographer Venessa Chapman deserves huge credit for bringing energy, precision, and flair to the stage. The Dream Ballet, so often trimmed or omitted, was presented in full and danced beautifully by Holly Deane – an exceptional talent. The entire dance ensemble sparkled with confidence and ability, arguably some of the best choreography seen in a local production.
The chorus added texture and authenticity, with every member fully committed to their character. The costumes were gorgeous with an attention to detail that was impressive.
Backing the actors was a full live orchestra under the expert direction of Peter Doherty, bringing the score to life with professionalism and passion.
A touching moment came with a surprise cameo from LMS stalwart Donald Hill, who played Will Parker twice in years gone by. His walk across the stage drew a well-deserved round of applause. The family tradition continues, with daughter Christine Deane stage managing and granddaughter Zoe Deane dancing the dream sequence—a lovely reminder of the society’s generational legacy.
A standing ovation sealed the night. If you haven’t booked your ticket yet, don’t miss out – Oklahoma! runs at the Millennium Forum until Saturday.
Tickets: www.millenniumforum.co.uk
REVIEW BY KIM KELLY
