About the Program

Premiere Date: November 15, 2013 

Hugh Jackman returns in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!” in time for the landmark musical’s 70th anniversary. Jackman — who starred in the hit film version of “Les Miserables” — can be seen again in his breakout musical role as cowpoke Curly in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!,” as part of the PBS Arts Fall Festival.

Directed by Sir Trevor Nunn and choreographed by Susan Stroman, the acclaimed Royal National Theatre production from 1998 reveals the work’s emotional complexity with a fresh approach. The production was filmed at Shepperton Studios in London just before its move to the West End. 

Josefina Gabrielle, formerly a soloist with the National Ballet of Portugal, co-stars with Jackman as the headstrong Laurey. Also featured in the cast are Maureen Lipman (“The Pianist”) as Aunt Eller, Vicki Simon as Ado Annie, Jimmy Johnston as Will Parker, and Peter Polycarpou as Ali Hakim.

Among “Oklahoma’s” famous songs are “The Surrey With the Fringe on Top,” “People Will Say We’re in Love,” “Out of My Dreams,” “I Cain’t Say No,” “Oklahoma!,” and “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” perhaps Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most beloved creation.