School Play - 1987 - Oklahoma

“The show had sparkle and pace which resulted in a most enjoyable evenings entertaining” remarks by the late Mrs Robyn Davies, Prep School teacher, about the school play in 1987, Oklahoma.

Some photos have been shared here that with bring back many wonderful memories of the students of the 80s. Copies of the original programmes from the different evenings along with Jenny Malletts play nots and stage direction have all been pulled from the archives.

Here we share the article and review from The Georgian Magazine…

1987 - School Play - Oklahoma

Write up from The Georgian Magazine - Pg 31

The spontaneous enjoyment that flowed between the cast of 'Oklahoma' and the audience during the three performances in the William Gore Hall will remain the most lasting memory of this year's prep production.

The producer, Jenny Mallett, who also took the role of Aunt Ellie, had obviously put hours of work and energy into this production. All boys from Std 2 to Std 5 were used in the production and it was obvious that they all enjoyed the fun of being on the stage and performing to such responsive audiences. The cast was well rehearsed and confident and were therefore able to enjoy themselves thoroughly. The show had sparkle and pace which resulted in a most enjoyable evening's entertaining — not something most of us expect at a school production! The chorus (which contained a few remarkably beautiful 'girls') moved and reacted very well and their enthusiastic singing added tremendously to the fun of the evening.

The principals were, however, the 'stars' of this production. Their parts, usually taken by experienced adults, were very demanding and it was amazing how competent they were in these adult roles. Mention must be made of Ross Kennard-Davis who played the part of Addo Annie with humour and skill. His song, 'I caint say no' was a highlight of the evening. Robert O'Grady made a very endearing heroine and he warmed to his part well - his last performance being his best. Neil Morgan, playing Annie's persistent suitor had a cheerful brashness on stage that added much to the production. Reza Omar acted his part with wry humour and the audience enjoyed his performance very much. Andreas Schmidt had excellent stage presence and played the role of Jud Fry convincingly. Evan Kearney acted and sang well in a difficult part and Mark Adams, André Venter, Ross James and Jason Fendick all contributed well in their parts.

Jason van der Poel, who played the lead role of Curly stole the hearts of the audience from the first phrase of 'Oh What A Beautiful Morning'. He gave an outstanding performance and his confident acting, musicality and natural stage presence were beautifully complemented by his lovely voice.

The musical director, Patrick McDonald, and Old St Georgian, had excellent rapport with the boys and his musical and spirited accompaniment complemented the singing beautifully.

No show is a success without a great deal of behind the scenes workers. Mothers helped with the colourful costumes and the make-up and the scenery kept Mr and Mrs Snaddon very busy for many hours.

Altogether this was a lively and joyful production, which, to me, epitomised the spirit of St George's. Bravo!

Mrs R Davies