Music Theatre West, Ellen Eccles Theater to showcase "Oklahoma!"

We may be in Cache Valley, but the Midwest is about to make a sudden stop on the local theater scene.

The Ellen Eccles Theater will showcase performances of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Oklahoma!" through Utah-based company Music Theatre West, starting Friday.

"Oklahoma!" will continue Cache Valley's tradition of high-quality theater shows.

"I've heard it estimated that 33 musicals are produced in Cache Valley each year, and I think that's pretty remarkable for a community of our size," said Wendi Hassan, the executive director for the Ellen Eccles Theater.

Hassan said she remains impressed by the amount of artistry shown throughout Cache Valley.

"The fact that our audiences support that level of artistic activity is even more impressive to me, and this is something our community does well," Hassan said. "I never cease to be amazed at the level of local and regional talent."

Music Theatre West, founded in 2007, is made-up entirely of volunteers.

"Cast members volunteer their time in exchange for the opportunity to perform on a world class stage with a live orchestra and receive music, dance and acting training from local professionals in their fields," said Celeste Baillio, the managing director for the theatre.

 Jay Richards, a founder and current artistic director for Music Theatre West, said the cast is made-up of people from different backgrounds.

"The wonderful people in our shows are moms, dads and students — just regular people with busy lives. We want them to love the experience, and come back," Richards said.

Richards also said the patrons' support is crucial.

"The most important aspect of our continued success is the patrons — the folks who buy tickets and support us by enjoying an evening in the theatre. We could not do it without them, and there is so much more happening here than most people realize," Richards said.

Performances of the show will continue Saturday, and go through next week with the final performance on Sept. 29. Showtimes begin at 7:30 p.m. each night, with an additional 1:30 p.m. time offered Sept. 29.