I was truly tested this summer when I accepted a role in the chorus of Oklahoma!

I didn't think anyone would pay attention to me. The first day of rehearsal, I realized I was very wrong. Each member of the production team paid each individual a significant amount of attention. I think it was with this production that I realized the true meaning of family; each person is significant in the role they play to make the family functional.

I am an only child in a single parent household. I absolutely love my mother, but it felt great to have more than one parent (the production team) even if it was just for the summer. The adults became my mentors, the wise guiding stars that shone for me on my darkest days. The entire dance ensemble became my brothers and sisters. The younger performers became almost like my children in a sense.

It's cliche, but ultimately what makes the family function is love. I loved every minute I was on stage, but what made my experience so wonderful really was the people. I love each person involved with Oklahoma! with all my heart. My spiritual connection with each person, even months later, has not weakened. I think of this adopted family everyday.

— Mallory Vieira - Chorus (Oklahoma!)


Being a part of the chorus in RCT's Oklahoma was a wonderful blessing. The professionalism and wholesome family atmosphere was very rewarding. Meeting new friends and being around the younger people with so much energy was so much fun. All my teen grandkids live far away so having this interaction was awesome.

The hugs were the Best!!!!

May God continue to bless you in your work with RCT.

— Ellen Kay Lee - Chorus (Oklahoma!)


My daughter Alicia and I have been in shows together since she was 10.  Oklahoma was our last chance to work together before she went off to Azusa Pacific as a theater major.  It was a culminating time for us as we may never be able to do a show together again. 

Oklahoma will hold many special memories for me, but being backstage with my little girl will be on of the most precious. 

—Dave Weltner – Ali Hakim [the Peddler] (Oklahoma!)


At age 50 and never in a production before, if there was one thing I could share with others it would be "Don't let fear (or age) stop you from experiencing something you dream of.  It may be full of blessings for you and for others.  Go for it!" 
 
Every part of my RCT involvement was a positive learning experience!  They are a team with a passion for the arts and to nurture others.  What I admire about RCT is they have a strong foundation in "family" and this is why I encourage others to join this team.  

Life is full of "Chapters," when one is done, it's up to you to start another!  I am so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone.  I enjoyed sharing my experiences with family and co-workers.  I hope this encourages them to step out of their comfort zone and enjoy life no matter what "Chapter" they may be in!

Blessings on you!

— Denise Crook – Chorus (Oklahoma!)


I would like to take the time to personally thank you for the opportunity to be involved with Oklahoma. It was an honor to be a part of such an excellent team. The music was top notch, the acting was fantastic, and the choreography was amazing. I knew it was a “real event” from the comments I heard from people as they came away from the show: “Wow. That duet with Will and Ado Annie was as good as any I have ever seen. It would rival a professional show.” And then there was, “I’ve paid to see the show 3 times already.” And let’s not forget, “My side hurt, I was laughing so hard.”

What really made this experience even better was the fact that my whole family was involved. Although at times it was difficult to get the whole troop to Escalon or Riverbank on time, we sure had a good time working together. We ran lines for each other, worked on music, and even learned some of the songs that the soloists were singing. Amy and Jana and I encouraged each other to do our best on stage and Cheryl and Deanna worked hard to make the music the best it could be.

(In fact, during our family vacation, we were walking around the central square at Disneyland, and my youngest looked up to me and said, “Dad, isn’t that Oh What a Beautiful Morning? and she was right! In fact, they played three other songs from the play while we were waiting for an attraction!)

At times, my wife and I had to model the correct, mature response to challenges during the production, but those times became “teachable moments” for us. Our family “played” together well, and we look forward to a chance to do it again.

Thanks again for all of your hard work in making a little bit of Oklahoma come to California.

— Dean Medek, [aka: Carnes] (Oklahoma!)