Lyric Theatre: A musical theatre experience for the community
Founded in 1963, Lyric Theatre operates with a mission to entertain and to enrich the appreciation of the arts in the Oklahoma community through musical theatre. As the only year-round musical theatre company in Oklahoma, the concept for Lyric Theatre was developed by a group of talented Oklahomans seeking to cultivate this mission through a range of classical and contemporary offerings. The Lyric Theatre offers shows from several venues throughout the Oklahoma City metro area and an educational academy for aspiring stars to learn the ropes of musical theatre. Lyric’s also offers an arts outreach program called Musical Interactive. The program is free to any school in the Oklahoma school system and serves more than 30,000 children statewide.
Lyric’s summer season shows are held at the Civic Center Music Hall in downtown Oklahoma City. Shows include a mix of productions from classic, modern and family musicals. The summer 2010 season includes four shows including Pump Boys & Dinettes (6/22-6/26), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (7/6-7/10), 42nd Street (7/20-7/24), and Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story (8/3-8/7). Single tickets range from $25-$60 and summer season passes range from $90-$200, depending on seating. The Civic Center Music Hall is located at 201 North Walker Ave.
The main Lyric venue is located at the historic Plaza Theatre—renovations have brought this historic landmark back to a fully functioning theatre experience with 270 seats and a huge stage for musicals, plays and more. The Plaza Theatre opened its doors in 1935 and was the first theatre in Oklahoma to offer air conditioning. The 2011 season of Lyric shows includes The Rocky Horror Show, Always . . .Patsy Cline, and Boeing Boeing. Ticket pricing at the Plaza Theatre is $40.
One of the most enriching offerings by Lyric Theatre is the Thelma Gaylord Academy, located one block west of the Plaza Theatre. In addition to developing musical skills and having fun, the Academy seeks to help children to develop skills in teamwork, leadership and public speaking. Academy classes include interactive activities like acting, singing, theatre movement and dance—tap, ballet and theatre dance. Also, private lessons and coaching are available as well as musical theory classes. There are also several classes for adults in similar subject matter.
HelloMetro Tip: Season ticket holders enjoy many advantages over single ticket holders including first pick at the best house seats, discounts on tickets, exchange privileges and the right to renew seats every year. Other discounts at Lyric Theatre are available for seniors, military, children, students and with an OK City discount card—up to 50% off!
Posted by Jennifer Pruett
