From Aerial Acrobat to Oklahoma! Standout: Meet Ray Davis

For Ray Davis, the stage is no new frontier—but musical theater is. The performer, known for captivating audiences at Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland, is now stepping into the world of Rodgers & Hammerstein as Slim in Oklahoma! at the Rose Center Theater, February 21st through March 9th. And if you ask him, it’s a role as fitting as the name itself. “I will be playing the role of a farmer named Slim...a very fitting name to my appearance. While I am tall, if anyone asks, I'm ‘actually’ five foot ten,” Davis jokes.

A Journey from the Spectator Seat to Center Stage

Davis’ love for theater didn’t start on stage—it started in the audience. “I have always loved seeing live theater, particularly musical productions. I remember seeing shows like Phantom and Les Misérables and being blown away,” he recalls. “It’s a very talented community, and I wanted to be a part of it.”

Though this marks his first musical production, Davis is no stranger to performance. His resume includes immersive character work at amusement parks and the high-flying art of aerial silk dancing—both of which have prepared him to take the leap into musical theater.

Stirring Up a Storm in Oklahoma!

Every actor has a scene they can’t wait to perform, and for Davis, it’s the moment that sends tensions soaring. “I’m excited I get to start the fight between the Farmer and the Cowman. It’s such a massive song that includes the entire cast,” he shares. “I feel lucky to be the one front and center when the first punch is thrown.”

It’s not just the big moments that excite Davis—it’s also the camaraderie among the cast.

“There isn’t anyone in this production that has a bad attitude or ego. Everyone is incredibly friendly and a delight to work with,” he says. “Being a member of the ensemble, we get to play off one another and create reactions and bonds that aren’t necessarily written in the script. If someone has an idea of something they’d like to do for a background scene, everyone jumps at the chance to see if it works. It’s a great creative atmosphere.”

Behind the Scenes: Laughter, Challenges, and Aunt Eller

While rehearsals have been full of exciting moments, they’ve also come with their challenges. “For myself, the hardest part is spatial awareness. There is always something going on on stage, and because I’m tall, I’m very conscious of whom I may be blocking at any given time.”

But with challenge comes humor. One of the funniest moments in rehearsals happened while staging the famous Farmer & the Cowman fight scene. “Our director Tim was filling in for Aunt Eller while we were blocking the fight,” Davis recalls. “I break through the crowd of farmers, very aggressively, ready to start this fight. Tim looks at me and, through a chuckle, says, ‘Oh, what, you’re going to fight Aunt Eller?’ I completely forgot that’s who he was reading the lines for and laughed. Honestly, that’s the smartest choice—because I’m pretty sure Aunt Eller would win any fight in this town.”

Why Oklahoma! Still Captivates Audiences Today

With its sweeping melodies and classic Americana charm, Oklahoma! continues to resonate with audiences. Davis believes its magic lies in its balance. “I think Oklahoma! does a great job of telling an upbeat and fun story. While there are dark undertones throughout the entire musical, it’s supposed to be a fun celebration,” he explains. “I have nostalgia for this play because it was one of the first I remember seeing and enjoying.”

When asked which scene he’s most excited for audiences to experience, his answer comes quickly. “Kansas City. It’s a fun scene and one of the first that features a larger dance routine. The gentleman playing Will is incredibly charismatic, engaging, and funny. I bet audiences will love his entrance song.”

Why You Can’t Miss This Oklahoma!

Davis has a simple reason why this production stands out: He’s in it.

“Other than the fact I’m in it? It’s hard to say,” he laughs. “The last time I saw Oklahoma! I was still in high school, and this is the first musical production I’ve been a part of, so not sure if I have an answer for this.”

But what he does know is why audiences should see it. “If they’re looking for a little Southern charm filled with upbeat music great for dancing, this is the show. Hopefully, the audience will be wanting to shout ‘YEE-HAW’ by the end of the night.” And if he had to sum up the production in three words? “Entertaining. Hats. YEEOW!”

Get Your Tickets Now!

On Stage February 21 – March 9

Click the banner below or visit rosecentertheater.com/oklahoma to reserve your seats today.

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