Stavros Demetraki will reprise the role of Ali Hakim when the critically acclaimed Young Vic production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! transfers to the West End’s Wyndham’s Theatre.
Reimagined for the stage by Daniel Fish, the production played a sold-out run at the Young Vic earlier this year, having previously transferred to Broadway from St. Ann’s Warehouse winning the Tony Award for Best Musical Revival.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! will open at Wyndham’s Theatre on 28 February 2023, with previews from 16 February, and run until 2 September 2023.
You’re coming back to Oklahoma! when it transfers to the West End, what can you tell us about this production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musical?
It’s a brand-new reimagining and not what you expect at all. It’s fresh, sexy and reinvented. It will make you think about Oklahoma in a totally different way.
What is it about Daniel Fish’s reimagining that made it such a success at The Young Vic?
I think how intimate, diverse and vital it all felt; plus, Daniels understanding of the piece and what he wanted was so clear.
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You’ll be reprising the role of Ali Hakim, what do you love about the character and what do you find most challenging about the role.?
I love how free Ali is, how he sees what he wants, and he just goes for it. I like playing out the predicament that he gets himself into and discovering how he’s going to get out of it. The most challenging part is keeping it fresh every night – as if it’s just happening for the first time.
Most of the original cast are returning, what are you looking forward to about working with them again, and how will you welcome new cast members?
I’m looking forward to laughing with them all again. We had the best time at the Young Vic, and I can’t wait to have some more fun with some brilliant talented and wonderful people. Also, the challenge of rediscovering the piece in a new space.
What opportunities does the bigger West End stage bring for the production?
Interestingly, the playing space is smaller. Although the piece will feel bigger and completely brand-new, the challenge will be fitting it into a space that is both new for the piece and for us as performers. I am just thrilled more people will see it because we are so proud of our show and want to share it with as many people as possible.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking for Oklahoma
Do it quick, do it now and do it rapidly! Bring your friends, bring your parents, bring your Nan and let’s get wet!
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