The iconic musical Oklahoma! is galloping into Orange County's Rose Center Theater February 21st through March 9th, bringing with it an electrifying cast ready to transport audiences to the heart of the American frontier. We sat down with two ensemble members—John Predny and Taya Fosmire—to dive into their journey, their roles, and why this production is a must-see event.
John Predny: From Opera to Oklahoma!
For John Predny, theater wasn’t always the plan. Originally from Chicago and now residing in Long Beach, John’s background is rooted in classical music. “My friend Jessie Lee Flynn asked me if I wanted to be in a production of Bonnie and Clyde. Up to that point, I mostly sang classical music. I finally realized how much fun I was missing out on and have tried to do a couple of musical theater shows a year.”
Since then, he’s played standout roles, including The Pirate King in Pirates of Penzance and performing in Miscast Cabaret with Kaleidoscope Collective. But his latest endeavor? Playing Joe and performing in the ensemble of Oklahoma! at Orange County's Rose Center Theater.
Memorable Moments & Rehearsal Laughs
John’s transition into musical theater has been full of highlights. “In my first Miscast Cabaret, I sang Memory from Cats. Dressed up like a cat, I got everyone laughing when I first entered the stage. I think it really set up the ending brilliantly—to transform from some character who everyone overlooks to just singing your guts out.”
And rehearsals for Oklahoma!? Let’s just say they’ve been delicious. “The first week of rehearsal, we somehow had an endless supply of pita bread!” John also admits that dancing has been a challenge: “My background is mostly ‘park and bark’ and on my audition form I said I was primarily a mover, not a dancer. So I was surprised—and a little nervous—to be in three big dances, including the ballet.”
What Makes This Production Special?
“This cast and the directors—I always look forward to rehearsals. This is such a great company to work with!” When asked why audiences should come see Oklahoma!, John doesn’t hesitate: “I think it will definitely inspire you, and you’ll have all these fantastic songs going through your head. Plus, these ticket prices are a steal for what most theater companies are charging these days!”
Taya Fosmire: A Passion for Performing
For Taya Fosmire, musical theater was inevitable. “I think growing up with dance, it’s a natural progression into musical theater. My mom will tell you I would request The Sound of Music on repeat at three years old!”
Her first musical was How to Succeed in Business Without Even Trying in high school, and she’s been hooked ever since. A dancer at heart, Taya has performed in productions like Curtains at Newport Theatre Arts Center and Chicago with Axis Theater, where she played Liz (Pop).
Why Audiences Will Love Oklahoma!
Taya is thrilled to be making her RCT debut and returning to Oklahoma!. “It’s a beloved classic and just such a fun show. Everyone onstage is having a great time, and we want to share it with the audience. Hopefully, they experience the same fun!”
And if she could play any role for one night? “Honestly, I’d want to be a boy in the ensemble! I truly love most male ensemble numbers and always think it would be so fun to do their choreography.” When asked to sum up Oklahoma! in three words, she chose: “Classic, Romantic, Thrilling!”
Why Oklahoma! at Rose Center Theater is a Must-See
With a vibrant cast, stunning choreography, and Rodgers & Hammerstein’s unforgettable score, this production of Oklahoma! is primed to be one of Orange County musical theater's standout productions.
As John Predny puts it, “I think the energy—you have to see and experience it live.” And with Taya Fosmire and the rest of this talented ensemble, you can expect a night filled with heart, humor, and show-stopping musical numbers.
Performances run for a limited time, so don’t miss your chance to experience Oklahoma! live. Grab your tickets today! 🎟️
On Stage February 21 – March 9
Click the banner below or visit rosecentertheater.com/oklahoma to reserve your seats today.
SEO KEYWORDS: Oklahoma! musical, Rose Center Theater, live theater in Orange County, Broadway classics, musical theater performance, community theater, John Predny, Taya Fosmire, local theater productions, must-see shows 2024
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