Oklahoma! or What The Constitution Means To Me

Hey all! Stuck deciding between these 2 shows so Id appreciate some recommendations. This would be for early August. Both seem to be shows I can really only see in NYC the way they are intended to be presented. I am into both subject matters, although I typically enjoy straight plays more than musicals. However, a good musical is a good musical. Plus, I have never seen Oklahoma!. Im barely familiar with the music and don't know too much about the plot, so is this production a really good one to see for my first experience with the show? Any help from people who have seen both is appreciated in advance!

I loved Oklahoma! Except that awful ballet at the start of the second act. I would chose Constitution to see a second time.

dramamama611 said: "Lol. I'm seeing both shows on Weds! I'll let you know. My 'gut' instinct is to tell you to see Constitution - esp since you prefer plays. Additionally, that has a shorter life on Bway. Someone mentioned that OK IS slated to tour - but I have my doubts that it will materialize."

Ah, perfect! Yes be sure to let me know. I don't hate musicals though, but yes I tend to pick a play over a musical given the opportunity or whats available.

I have seen both Constitution and Oklahoma! and would recommend the unique Oklahoma! experience. It certainly is not a typical musical.

sm33 said: "I know What the Constitution Means to Me is closing in August, but it's on the schedule at the Ahmansonin Los Angeles next year. I'mnot sure if it's doing a full tour, or just that city."

Heidi Schreck unfortunately stated she won't be appearing on the tour in LA. :/

Im very confused/curious how the show will exist without her? Surely the script needs to be adjusted?

Mike Barrett said: "Broadwaybri2 said: "Im very confused/curious how the show will exist without her? Surely the script needs to be adjusted?"

Haven't seen the show, but pretty sure she's acting as herself. As in, shes playing herself as a teenager/college student. So she's still acting. Id assume the new lead is just playing a teenage version of the playwright."

Yes, she is "playing herself" but she also IS herself. When I saw it, she got choked up a few times and said there were parts that still really got to her emotionally. I'm sure it'll still be good without her on tour because the subject matter is good, but seeing it with her is impactful because of her personal story.

Honestly, they're both outstanding works of art. Flip a coin?

Oklahoma!, full stop.

But really you know all you need to know: one is a play/lecture about constitutional law, and one is a modern take on a R&H classic. I found that Constitution dragged towards the end when it became a bit of a screed, but they are both great nights at the theater. Just a question of whether you prefer a well sung musical or a smart, funny attempt at a con law class.

JDonaghy4 said: "Oklahoma!, full stop.

But really you know all you need to know: one is a play/lecture about constitutional law, and one is a modern take on a R&H classic. I found that Constitution dragged towards the end when it became a bit of a screed, but they are both great nights at the theater. Just a question of whether you prefer a well sung musical or a smart, funny attempt at a con law class."

Methinks you missed quite a bit.

dramamama611 said: "JDonaghy4 said: "Oklahoma!, full stop.

But really you know all you need to know: one is a play/lecture about constitutional law, and one is a modern take on a R&H classic. I found that Constitution dragged towards the end when it became a bit of a screed, but they are both great nights at the theater. Just a question of whether you prefer a well sung musical or a smart, funny attempt at a con law class."

Methinks you missed quite a bit."

Such as?

dramamama611 said: "I haven't seen it yet (tomorrow) but I truly can't imagine that your assessment is complete to have the vast majority here (and at the Tony nom committee) sing its praises. Might I actrually agree with you after I see it? Sure - and I'll say as much."

Let us know what you think of both shows! What else do you plan to see (or have seen) on your trip?