The Broadway of Oklahoma City is Lyric Theatre

Lyric Theatre is a staple of the Plaza District in Oklahoma City. The premier professional theatre company began in 1963 after a group of 14 prominent Oklahomans discussed the idea of creating a professional theatre company. Now, almost 60 years later, the company continues to bring Broadway-caliber theatre to Oklahoma, provides state-of-the-art education, and employs over 250 individuals on an annual basis.

“Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma is the state’s largest, resident, live theatre producing classic and contemporary musicals and plays on two stages:  The historic 281-seat Plaza Theatre and the 2,477-seat Civic Center Music Hall,” said Michael Baron, Lyric Theatre's Producing Artistic Director. “Lyric productions in Oklahoma City attract audiences from 305 Oklahoma cities and towns, plus attendees living in 3,504 zip codes across 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and Canada.  As an Oklahoma City-based producing theatre, Lyric Theatre’s revenue is reinvested back into the city and state’s economy through supplies and labor for sets, costumes, props, lighting, sound and sales taxes on ticket sales.”

Over the course of their history, Lyric has developed well-known actors and actresses through their Thelma Gaylord Academy for youth ages 5-18. Their acting opportunities have been harnessed by individuals through the academy and various performances. “Kristin Chenoweth, Kelli O’Hara, Megan Mullally, Chita Rivera, Beth Level, Emily Skinner, Tommy Tune, Dee Hoty, Billy Porter and many others have performed on Lyric’s stages,” said Baron.

It’s not just Oklahoma City residents who know the value of Lyric. “Lyric Theatre won international press acclaim from The New York Times and BBC News for its re-envisioning of A CHRISTMAS CAROL at the historic Harn Homestead,” said Baron. “We also received national accolades for our spectacular production of the musical GREASE at the Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School Pribil Football Stadium which featured a cast of 60 and real, classic cars.”

If you’re interested in being entertained by the talent of Lyric, you’re in luck. On September 15, they will begin performances of their fourth show of the season: MASTER CLASS. The show is a 1995 Tony award-winning play by Terrence McNally. Lyric will be performing it at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday; Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. until October 3 at the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Purchase tickets here.