Five Reasons You Need to See the IKE Players Production of ‘Oklahoma!’

I've stated for years that some of the most talented live performers in the world come from the Palm Springs of Washington. And that's not just because I'm here, too, but year after year the local high schools and their wonderful plays and performances, the concerts they put on throughout the year, the charity work they do for the valley, bringing art and inspiration to those looking for an escape -- it's second to none.

I had the chance to see the classic musical Oklahoma! History-wise, many consider Oklahoma! as the first Broadway-style of musical. A stage performance stepping away from vaudeville where the story, song, dance -- it all makes sense to the plot.

Reasons to support your local musicals

You'll get a full-professional show. From the staging to the lights to the costumes to the props, it's all national-theater quality. You'll be pleasantly surprised how well it looks and how quick the scene changes happen when it goes from one location to another. Very well done. Though I couldn't quite see the specific photos in Jud's smokehouse. I need to get new glasses.

The singing is great, Eisenhower High School has always had a great choir, but to combine the singing with the dancing in many scenes, it took a lot of practice, hard work, and dedication to pull this off for all the students.

The price of a ticket for IKE musicals is only $15. $12 for students. I've paid $200+ for tickets to musicals in Seattle and Portland so $15 is a steal of a deal. Again, compared to how well these students do this it's well worth the admission. Watch it twice if you can.

What you see on stage is only half of the story. This is a student-run production so not just the performers on stage but you'll hear your IKE students in the pit playing flawlessly along with what's happening on stage, the stage crew backstage - everyone involved, the students are running this show.

In watching Oklahoma! you're witnessing a piece of history. Sure, the songs and dance numbers a great and there's romance and comedy but it all falls together and it all makes sense on purpose. Everyone did great.

And, on a personal note, Oklahoma! was made from a book written by Lynn Riggs who is a distant relative of mine. I can't pin-point it, exactly. One of those 'great-grandpa's 2nd cousin, twice removed' ideas, but still related in a diluted way.

You can get your tickets in advance online or buy them at the door. Either way, don't miss out as there are only a few more showtimes left.