Photos: The Encore Musical Theatre Company Presents OKLAHOMA!

The Encore Musical Theatre Company's production of the timeless musical classic, Oklahoma! by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein opened last week. With the 14-piece orchestra, conducted by R. MacKenzie Lewis, taking center stage, the audience is immersed in the rich and vibrant score of one of Broadway's most beloved musicals. See photos from the production.

Dan Cooney, Artistic Director of The Encore and the visionary behind this production shares his excitement about the innovative approach: "Having the orchestra on stage brings a dynamic energy to the performance, creating a seamless blend of music and storytelling. It's a special opportunity for our audience to witness the incredible talent of our musicians first-hand."

The production features a talented ensemble cast, including 14 students from the University of Michigan School of Music Theatre and Dance. These emerging stars, many of whom are singing and dancing in the ensemble while understudying lead roles, bring a fresh and invigorating energy to The Encore's stage.

Among the standout U-M student performers are rising senior Jason Koch, who takes on the iconic role of "Curly", alongside the charming Maddie Dick as "Ado Annie", and the charismatic Anderson Zoll as "Will Parker". Their talent and dedication promise to breathe new life into these beloved characters, making this production of "Oklahoma!" a must-see event.

Starring as "Laurey" is Aurora Penepacker (Encore's Once on This Island), joined by Encore favorites David Moan as "Judd Fry", Keith Kalinowski as "Andrew Carnes", and Cody Dent as "Ali Hakim". Making her Encore debut is Michigan staple Julia Glander as "Aunt Eller". 

Rounding out the cast are Elle Michaels, Terrence Bennett, Nova Brown, Ethan Hoefer, Tsumari Patterson, Brady Ryan Phillips, Kate Player, Natasha Rodriguez, Drey'Von Simmons, Aquila Sol, Samuel Sommer, Ella Thomas-Montgomery, Nicola Troschinetz, Shaun White, and Abby Widlak.

The set design is by Shane Cinal, lighting design by Joseph R. Walls and Ethan Hoffman, costume design by Marilee Dechart, sound design by Chris Goosman, props design by Anne Donevan. The production is directed by Daniel Cooney, with choreography by Amy West. Alexander Kunitz serves as Production Stage Manager. 

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit The Encore's website: theencoretheatre.org