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Show Oklahoma Review Nearly Perfect, lot... By M. B. SAFFLE Chronicle Staff Writer Despite production difficulties and inadequate accoustics, "Oklahoma," "Okla-homa," perhaps the most famous of American musicals, opened successfully suc-cessfully Monday night at the Valley Val-ley Music Hall. Oklahoma's popularity is well-deserved. well-deserved. Richard Rogers' excellent music is supported by a strong plot, interesting characters, arid skillfully-written dialogue. Hundreds of mediocre writers and composers have borrowed from Oklahoma, but the freshness and appeal of the original work still attract audiences the world around. It is unfortunate that minor flaws marred the VMH Oklahoma opening open-ing night. An apparent lack of rehearsals re-hearsals resulted in ragged song beginnings, prop-moving difficulties, difficul-ties, and an orchestral playing support sup-port of less-than-perfect quality. Though the dance scenes were well choreographed, the ballet dancers in the dream scene were not equal to the situation. And even with the generally fine blocking, the stage became overcrowded at times. The actors, led by John Raitt, gave an enjoyable performance. Mr. Raitt may not be able to sing, but his enthusiasm and talent insured in-sured his success as Curley, Oklahoma's Okla-homa's male lead. |