The Rose Center Theater’s production of Oklahoma! has been wowing audiences with its high-energy dance numbers, pitch-perfect harmonies, and unforgettable performances. Now, with just one weekend left, this is your final chance to experience the magic live. Before the final curtain falls, we’re spotlighting some of the incredible performers who have made this show one for the books.
Andrew Broome: A First-Time Rose Center Performer with a Passion for Storytelling
Andrew Broome is making his Rose Center Theater debut as Ike Skidmore, and he’s savoring every moment. His journey into theater began in sixth grade with a production of Willy Wonka, and since then, he’s tackled everything from Einstein in Picasso at the Lapin Agile to George Bailey in It’s a Wonderful Life. “One of my favorite stage memories is getting a big laugh after finishing a complicated, ironic scene from Picasso that we had rehearsed a hundred times,” says Broome. “That feeling was incredible—I wanted more.”
Like many of his cast mates, if he could swap roles for a night, he’d pick Curly. “His songs and dialogue just ooze confidence, and he has such a classic sense of humor,” he says. “Plus, that Rodgers and Hammerstein sound? You can’t beat it.” But what Broome loves most about Oklahoma! is the music—particularly the intricate harmonies in the title song. “At some points, it’s seven parts! It’s such a joy to perform.” So why should audiences make sure they catch the show before it closes? “You’ll either learn some new tunes or realize, ‘Ohh, THIS is where I know that song from!’”
Jason Galvan: A New Face at the Rose, but a Natural on Stage
Jason Galvan is no stranger to the spotlight, but Oklahoma! marks his first production at the Rose Center Theater. A theater student at CSUF, he’s played Damian in Mean Girls and Scuttle in The Little Mermaid. He describes the Oklahoma! ensemble as “bubbly and country,” and he’s embraced every moment of it. “
As an ensemble, we’re just a group of friends having fun together—both on and off stage.” For Galvan, the highlight of the show is the full-cast number “Kansas City.” “It’s such a phenomenal dance piece,” he says. “And, of course, ‘The Farmer & The Cowman’ is a blast!” His advice to anyone on the fence about seeing the show? “You’re going to leave happy. That’s what theater is all about.”
Jillian Matthews: A Rose Center Veteran with a Lifetime of Musical Theater
For Jillian Matthews, Oklahoma! isn’t just another show—it’s a homecoming. A longtime Rose Center performer, she’s practically grown up on this stage. Her connection to the theater runs deep; her mother has been choreographing productions here since its opening, and Jillian has followed in her footsteps, performing in countless shows throughout the years.
“I’ve basically been raised here at the Rose,” says Matthews. “My mom has been choreographing for the Rose since its opening, and I have performed in many shows throughout my life.” Jillian’s resume includes standout performances as Phyllis Dale in 42nd Street, Flotsam in The Little Mermaid, and a Silly Girl in Beauty and the Beast. But one of her most memorable roles was playing Valentine the doll in Mary Poppins, where she put her Knotts Scary Farm scare actor training to good use.
“I had the time of my life being a creepy clown doll,” she says with a laugh. In Oklahoma!, Jillian plays an ensemble member affectionately dubbed “April May June” by her counterpart Carl June (played by Bretten Morgan Popiel). For one night, though, she’d love to step into Curly’s boots.
“I’d love to live out my leading man fantasy and get the opportunity to use a prop gun,” she jokes. “Who wouldn’t want to be Hugh Jackman?”
Why should you come see Oklahoma! this final weekend? “It’s got something for everyone,” she says. “Bright colors, big dance numbers, even some fighting and special effects. It’s classic musical theater at its best.”
SophiaGrace Williams: A Dancer with a Story to Tell
For SophiaGrace Williams, Oklahoma! is more than just a show—it’s another chapter in her lifelong love affair with dance. A high school senior at Orange County School of the Arts, she’s already had a career that most performers only dream of. She’s toured Spain and France as a featured dancer, tap danced for Musical Theatre West’s 42nd Street, and had her original choreography showcased at the Irvine Barclay Theatre.
Her journey into dance was shaped by a unique challenge—she was born blind in one eye, with only 50% vision in the other. But instead of letting it hold her back, she found freedom in movement. “My mother enrolled me in tap dance as a toddler, where I could find joy through the sounds and rhythm of my shoes,” Williams explains. “Even now, I still prefer to close my eyes and find fulfillment through movement.” She brings that same passion to Oklahoma!, where she’s part of the dynamic ensemble. “The show is packed with catchy, unforgettable tunes—my personal favorite is ‘The Farmer and the Cowman’! The audience will be clicking their heels in their seats.”
Final Curtain Call – Don’t Miss It!
With only one weekend left, this is your last opportunity to see Oklahoma! at the Rose Center Theater. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Rodgers & Hammerstein or discovering this classic for the first time, this production promises an unforgettable night of music, dance, and storytelling. Get your tickets before it’s too late!
Don’t miss your chance to experience Oklahoma! as only the Rose Center Theater can deliver. Secure your tickets today! Final Weekend is March 7-9!
Click the banner below or visit rosecentertheater.com/oklahoma to reserve your seats today.
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