Phil Dunster, known for his role in the acclaimed series Ted Lasso, and West End star Zizi Strallen are set to headline a London concert production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! This special event, commemorating the musical’s 80th anniversary, will take place at the historic Theatre Royal Drury Lane on August 19 and 20.
Dunster, a Bristol Old Vic Theatre School alum, garnered acclaim for his performance in Pink Mist, earning an Olivier nomination. His portrayal of Jamie Tartt in Ted Lasso earned him an Emmy nomination. Excited about his role in Oklahoma!, Dunster expressed his enthusiasm on Instagram.
Strallen, recognized for her Olivier-nominated turn as Mary Poppins in the West End and on tour, brings her stellar talent to the role of Laurey. With a repertoire spanning from Sunset Boulevard to Cats, she adds depth to the production.
Directed and choreographed by Bill Deamer, the concert will feature Robert Russell Bennett’s original 28-piece orchestrations performed by the London Musical Theatre Orchestra, conducted by Ben Glassberg. Audiences can expect beloved tunes like “Oh, What A Beautiful Mornin’” and “The Surrey With The Fringe On Top.”
Oklahoma! debuted at Theatre Royal Drury Lane in 1947, captivating audiences for 1,543 performances. Based on Lynn Riggs’ play Green Grow the Lilacs, the musical explores love, community, and justice in an early 20th-century Oklahoma setting.
Stay tuned for further casting announcements as the excitement builds for this timeless musical celebration.