Oklahoma! The Broadway Musical
Chapter 1 - How Oklahoma! Began

Lesson 1: Intro to Oklahoma! and the Integrated Musical

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IN THIS LESSON

Understand the significance of Oklahoma! in musical theatre history…

Oklahoma! marked the groundbreaking debut of Rodgers and Hammerstein as a creative team, launching a new era in musical theatre. Adapted from Lynn Riggs’ 1931 play Green Grow the Lilacs, the story is set in 1906 in the farmland just outside Claremore, Indian Territory. At its core, it follows Laurey Williams as she navigates the affections of two very different suitors: the charming cowboy Curly McLain and the unsettling farmhand Jud Fry. A playful secondary romance between Will Parker and the spirited Ado Annie adds humor and heart.

Premiering on Broadway in 1943, Oklahoma! became a massive success, running over 2,200 performances and eventually inspiring award-winning revivals, international productions, and a beloved 1955 film adaptation. Its influence was so significant that Rodgers and Hammerstein were honored with a special Pulitzer Prize in 1944.

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"Oh, what a beautiful mornin', oh, what a beautiful day!" "The farmer and the cowman should be friends." "People will say we're in love."

"Oh, what a beautiful mornin', oh, what a beautiful day!" "The farmer and the cowman should be friends." "People will say we're in love."

"I cain’t say no!" "I don't say I'm no better than anybody else, but I'll be danged if I ain't just as good!" "A man's got to be hearty and strong, if he wants to be a cowboy."

"I cain’t say no!" "I don't say I'm no better than anybody else, but I'll be danged if I ain't just as good!" "A man's got to be hearty and strong, if he wants to be a cowboy."

"You’re doin’ fine, Oklahoma! Oklahoma, O.K.!" "If I wasn’t a little bit skeered, I wouldn’t be worth a hoot." "Why, you're nothin' but a mangy dog!" "I don’t need no hired hand. I got you."

"You’re doin’ fine, Oklahoma! Oklahoma, O.K.!" "If I wasn’t a little bit skeered, I wouldn’t be worth a hoot." "Why, you're nothin' but a mangy dog!" "I don’t need no hired hand. I got you."