High schoolers offer pro performance

Joe Delaney

Friday, March 12, 1999 | 10:26 a.m.

The Bishop Gorman High School Theatre Department's presentation of the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic musical "Oklahoma," produced and directed by Jane Talley, is a thoroughly delightful professional production in every respect. Talley made full use of the excellent new theater in the Flamingo Library. Attendance at the show caught was good, with advance orders indicating nearly full houses through Saturday.

Talley also captured the underside, the hardships, of these early settlers in Indian territory, hoping to become a state. Robert Buckley, member of the Gorman football and rugby teams, is a believable Curly, a cowhand in love with Laurey, portrayed by Elizabeth Seagrave. Their duets together are outstanding.

Aunt Eller, Laurey's surrogate mother, is an important character. Amanda Wyum started in the show caught, became ill, and had to be replaced en route by Danielle Hamrick, her understudy. It was done smoothly and professionally. Jill Seagrave's Ado Annie, who "cain't say no," displayed great comedy sense and timing, as did Rafal Brzeski as the peddler Ali Hakim, who almost captures Ado Annie before losing her to Thomas Mueller's Will Parker.

Chris Manno is a menacing Jud Fry. His fights with Curley are realistically choreographed. Special bows to Kim Culp and Jane Bartell for their choreography throughout the production. Culp and Bartell are Rockettes in the Flamingo Hilton's "Great Radio City Spectacular." Megan Miller and J.C. Perea are exceptional as the Dream Laurey and Dream Curley in the ballet dream sequence.

More bows go to Jane Talley's daughter, Wendy, and Cora Johnson, who served as vocal coaches. The singing and dancing were of very high caliber throughout. We also single out Michelle Anderson-Beck for her set design and her husband, Stuart Beck, for his lighting design. Plus big hugs to the large cast of talented and attractive performers. We would be remiss if we omitted Stephanie Ervin as Gertie Cummings, Laurie's rival, and world-class giggler.

Musical Director David Banks and his 16-piece live orchestra featuring pianist George Ivy made a huge difference with near-perfect accompaniment. It adds so much -- ask any Strip singer or dancer.

The message here, especially for seniors and those on limited budgets (tickets are $6.50): Check out the local high school productions along with community theater and the high quality efforts at both CCSN and UNLV. It's your loss if you don't.