Lyric Theatre was founded in 1963 by twelve prominent Oklahomans who wanted to bring musical theater to the state. Three shows were produced that first summer: Oklahoma!, Kiss Me, Kate, and Brigadoon. The main geographical area that the founders originally targeted was Oklahoma City and environs, but they planned eventually to bring in audiences from many cities across the state. As of this writing Lyric and its newly named Thelma Gaylord Academy have season subscribers from 112 towns and serve nearly 53,000 patrons annually.
Recent seasons have offered productions of such classics as The Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof, Cabaret, and The Music Man, as well as more recent shows including Urinetown, The Producers, and Once on This Island. The theater also boasts an arts outreach program that has served more than 30,000 schoolchildren statewide.
Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma Information
- Performance Venues: Civic Center Music Hall (201 N. Walker Avenue), The Plaza Theater and the Thelma Gaylord Academy.
- Public Transportation: Depends on venue (Civic Center is accessible)
- Performance/Programs: This company is best known for its productions of large-scale Broadway musicals. Their season also usually features a popular straight play, as well as productions for young audiences. Performances usually are presented Wednesday-Sunday.
- Admission: Lyric at the Civic Center tickets range from $23-$55. Lyric at the Plaza tickets are $40. Discounts at both venues are available for seniors, students, children, and groups. There are no refunds or cancellations allowed on any Lyric Theater production, however exchanges are offered when available.
- Subscription/Memberships: Subscriptions at the Civic Center and Plaza Theater venues begin at $75 for a three-play season. A “Flex Plan” option is also available.
