Jarrett Ott as Curly

OKLAHOMA! (Rodgers/Hammerstein)

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved classic Oklahoma!, revolutionary for its integration of score, book and choreography,will make its Glimmerglass debut in a new production by Arena Stage’s Artistic Director Molly Smith.

“Rodgers and Hammerstein are, quite simply, the best in musical theater,” Smith said. “They are giants. Subversive, universal and gutsy, this musical appeals to anyone who longs for freedom, change and transformation.”

The story of Oklahoma! centers on Laurey and her two suitors, Curly and Jud, and features a supporting cast of colorful characters working to gain a foothold in Oklahoma Territory. The score includes such timeless numbers as “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” “I Cain’t Say No,” and “People Will Say We’re in Love.”

Vanessa Becerra, seen this season as Musetta in La bohème, will sing Laurey. Baritone Jarrett Ott, currently singing Masetto in Don Giovanni at The Santa Fe Opera, will take on the role of Curly. Judith Skinner will sing the role of Aunt Eller.

James Lowe, who conducted Glimmerglass’ 2013 production of Camelot, will lead the Glimmerglass Festival Orchestra.

Tony Award-winner Eugene Lee, known for his designs of Candide and Wicked on Broadway,will design the scenery. Costumes were designed by Tony Award-winner Martin Pakledinaz for Arena Stage. Robert Wierzel will design the lighting. Parker Esse, whose career highlights include associate choreographer for Broadway’s Finian’s Rainbowand A Tale of Two Cities, will choreograph.

The production will run July 8 through August 22, 2017.