Weekend Showcase: Wayzata High School’s ‘Oklahoma!’

Wayzata High School is offering a new look at a classic presenting Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!” this weekend.

Freshmen and sophomores at WHS are performing the 1943 show for audiences over the next two weekends. It is co-directed by Matt Riehle and Bri Graham, who say it is a unique opportunity for the younger students to shine.

“It is really about community, rural America and love. I think those are the biggest three themes of it,” Riehle said.

The directors explained that “Oklahoma!” was revolutionary because it was a picture of a more rural America. They hope the audience sees themselves in it.

“We really like when our audience feels connected to the work that we do, and they’re able to see themselves in a show,” Graham said. “I think that’s really what theater and art is kind of about.”

WHS students rehearse a number for “Oklahoma!”

Sharing a Story

Owen Seyfert plays Curly. He’s the main love interest in the show to the female main character, Laurey.

“He kind of rallies everyone around him to just get along. So that’s kind of what the show is,” Seyfert said.

It is not a true love story without an obstacle. Owen Piatowski plays Jud, who is also vying for Laurey’s attention.

“He constantly pursues her, but in the wrong ways. And so he comes off as this creepy guy and everyone dislikes him for it and that kind of makes him crazy,” Piatowski said. 

Piatowski said it was a unique challenge as an actor to tap into the mind of an antagonist.

“There are so many things that are exaggerated about him, but they all come rooted from emotions that everyone feels,” Piatowski explained. “So, I take emotions that I have felt throughout that day and try to amplify them as much as I can during the performance.”

Both actors say it is worth it to come for the color, the story and the work they put into it.

“Lots of dancing, and there are some very talented dancers among us. Very, very talented. Tap dancers, break dancers, really colorful– and there’s a lot of great music as well,” Seyfert said.

“Oklahoma!” opens this weekend on Friday, Feb. 23 at 7 p.m in Auditorium 2. There are two shows on Feb. 24 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. The weekend of March 1 follows the same schedule.

Ticket details are available on Wayzata High School Theatre’s website.

Wayzata High School

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