While the recordings of highlights and hits from
Rodgers & Hammerstein's still-popular
Oklahoma! have been issued over the years, the complete, as originally orchestrated score (by
Richard Rodney Bennett) had yet to be recorded. However, following a live-staged performance at the 2017 BBC Proms, conductor
John Wilson took it upon himself to deliver this premiere. He sticks with the original orchestra dimensions as well, which is a good thing since the handpicked members of his
Sinfonia of London are powerful enough in this smaller group.
Wilson also took advantage of the quality theaters around London, bringing in soloists and a cast ensemble of veterans from stages across England. He does well in selecting a cast here; while all are more than capable singers, they are also able to deliver the vocal acting that is necessary to pull this off. Leading the cast are
Nathaniel Hackmann, reprising his role as Curly from the Proms performance, and
Sierra Boggess as Laurey. The vocalists and orchestra take full advantage of the space and recording setup, which allows the orchestra to play full out while not overstraining the singers. The beauty of
Rodgers' music paired with
Hammerstein's book is evident, even if you are unfamiliar with anything but the titular state (if even that!); the imagery of ranches and open cattle land easily comes to mind. This recording should be welcomed with open arms by those who are familiar with the musical, be it either from a stage (generally edited and with cuts) or in its
film version with its edits. Oh, what a beautiful mornin', indeed. ~ Keith Finke
![Rodgers & Hammerstein's Oklahoma! [Chandos]](http://prodimage.images-bn.com/pimages/0095115532225_p0_v2_s90x140.jpg)
![Rodgers & Hammerstein's Oklahoma! [Chandos]](http://img.images-bn.com/static/redesign/srcs/images/grey-box.png?v11.7.4)
![Rodgers & Hammerstein's Oklahoma! [Chandos]](http://prodimage.images-bn.com/pimages/0095115532225_p0_v2_s600x595.jpg)
