If I had a nickel for every musical set in Oklahoma, I’d have two nickels. Which isn’t a lot, but it’s weird that it happened twice. 

The first and most well-known of those two musicals, the eponymous “Oklahoma,” is currently playing at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre - their 303rd production for their 40th anniversary season. Oklahoma is a Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, with a slate of songs that lift the heart despite its dark themes. The title number was even chosen as the Oklahoma state song. 

 My introduction to the show came from Elizabethtown Area High School’s production in the 2000s, which several friends were in. I’ve also seen the Royal National Theatre production recording with Hugh Jackman as Curly. But, opportunities to see “Oklahoma” live locally have been few and far between in recent years, so, when I saw it was coming to the Dutch Apple, on the schedule it went.

“Oklahoma” was the third Dutch Apple show I’ve seen, after “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” in 2014 and “Mamma Mia” in 2021. Both were excellent. This production is the fifth time it’s been part of the Dutch Apple’s season schedule, including as part of their inaugural season in 1987. 

Since the Dutch Apple is one of Lancaster County’s only dinner theaters, a brief moment for the food… Their comfort food-forward menu is smaller than other area buffets like Shady Maple or Bird-in-Hand Family Smorgasboard, but doesn’t feel limited, with various gluten and/or sugar-free and vegetarian options for guests. Group favorites were the Parmesan-encrusted chicken, the smashed potatoes, the pecan-crusted tilapia and, for dessert, the coconut cake.

Now, as they say in “There’s No Business Like Show Business" from Irving Berlin’s “Annie Get Your Gun” (another infrequently performed show that’s played at the Dutch Apple over the years)... “Let’s go on with the show!”

As a frequent patron of Lancaster County theaters, I was delighted to see some familiar faces onstage, like Jim Johnson, Managing Artistic Director of Susquehanna Stage in Marietta. (Those who’ve attended more Dutch Apple shows may recognize others.) But, there were also several cast members making their Dutch Apple debut, and this freshness was reflected in the production.

It absolutely tickled me that Caroline Bowers (Ado Annie) and Roberto Silva-Neto (Will Parker) are a real-life couple. Their characters’ relationship may be “Oklahoma’s” B-story, but their performances were anything but secondary, with excellent chemistry and comedic timing. Jud Fry is the resident bad guy of “Oklahoma,” and Cody Howard played him with a haunting gravitas. The balletic dance numbers were impressive, the set was minimal yet immersive, and overall featured some cool lighting effects, especially during Jud’s main number, “Lonely Room.” I was disappointed that the peddler’s song, “It’s A Scandal,” was missing, but the 1955 movie did this as well, so it’s an understandable decision. 

If you’re a fan of Golden Age musicals, or just want a show that’s humorous and heartwarming, you won’t want to miss the Dutch Apple’s take on Rodgers and Hammerstein’s first musical collaboration. 

See “Oklahoma” at the Dutch Apple Wednesday - Sunday until Saturday, May 10. Matinee, evening and “Sunday twilight” performances available. Best enjoyed with a piece of Dutch Apple pie.