The state of Oklahoma is celebrating its centennial in 2007 and the ever-popular musical named for the state is being staged throughout the nation in its honor, including a production that opened this past weekend at Escondido's Kit Carson Park amphitheater.

"Oklahoma!" opened on Broadway in 1943.

While the story is a memorable one, it is Rodgers and Hammerstein's music that lives on and on. The title song became so popular, it was adopted as the official state song in 1953. American Rose Theatre continues the Plays in the Park series at the Kit Carson Park amphitheater with "Oklahoma!" which runs through this weekend.

The amphitheater is an ideal setting for the musical. The large cast of 38 has ample room for roaming around the stage while the audience experiences an "up-close" feeling.

Director Douglas Smith is to be commended for gathering a very talented cast to do justice to "Oklahoma!"

The cast is about evenly split between youth and adults. A handful of the adults are teachers, including Smith, who heads the theater arts classes at Westview High School in Poway.

Andrew J. Smith, a recent New York transplant, plays the lovesick cowboy, Curly. He gives superb renditions of "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'," "People Will Say We're in Love" and "Surry With the Fringe on Top," as well as the title tune.

Maeve Martin makes a beautiful Laurey. She carries the role through all the song and dance numbers, including the Dream Ballet. "Out of My Dreams" and "Many a New Day" are shared with the female ensemble.

Eric Vest's Texas drawl fits right in with his character, Will Parker. This is a fun role and Vest is making the most of it. He leads the male singers and dancers as he relates his experiences in "Kansas City."

Ado Annie is delightfully played by Amanda Kramer. Another fun role, and Kramer is enjoying it as much as the audience enjoys watching her.

Scott Farrell hams it up as Ali Hakim. Farrell knows how to handle this shifty peddler who has an eye for the ladies. Shawn Jones comes across with the right amount of meanness as the hired hand, Jud Fry. Bonnie Sue Chick needs a little more oomph as Aunt Eller to bring out her loving nature.

The production crew includes colorful costumes by Janet Pitcher, set designed by Ed Smith, lighting designed by Michael Rooney, choreography by Betty King and musical direction by Cheryl Cline. Stage manager is Peggy Allen. This is, indeed, a production of "Oklahoma!" that is not to be missed. It's perfect for the entire family.