Wind is not the only thing sweeping down the plain for the latest Broadway revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! There’s also a generous dose of satire, thanks to Gerard Alessandrini.
Alessandrini is the creator, writer, and director of Forbidden Broadway, an Off-Broadway revue that skewers shows on the Great White Way and their beloved stars. Since 1982 the comedy cabaret has been poking fun at each season’s offerings and has been updated over a dozen times in order to stay relevant.
The latest iteration jabs at Hadestown, Moulin Rouge, Dear Evan Hansen, Beetlejuice, Tootsie, Frozen and others.
Oklahoma! is also a target, along with its’ star Mary Testa, who originated the role of Aunt Eller. At a recent performance of Forbidden Broadway, Testa was joined by some of her fellow crew members, who listened to the six-person cast excoriate the classic musical with parody songs including, “Oh! What a Miserable Mornin'”, and “Woke-lahoma”.
Jenny Lee Stern–as Testa’s Aunt Eller– also delivered her own comedic spin on Eller’s speech in the show’s final act.
The Oklahoma! segment received the night’s biggest applause, both from Testa and the rest of the audience. Following the performance, Testa went backstage to meet the cast.
Forbidden Broadway runs through December 1st at The Triad (West 72nd between Amsterdam and Columbus). For tickets and information, click here.
Oklahoma! Runs through January 19th at Broadway’s Circle in the Square (West 50th between Broadway and 8th). For tickets and information, click here.