Culture commission to host ‘Oklahoma!’ theater chat

EAST HAMPTON » The East Hampton Arts & Culture Commission will host F. Wade Russo for an informative, interactive theater chat on the history of “Oklahoma,” now playing at the Goodspeed Opera House. The free event will be held Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. at the East Hampton Public Library, 105 Main St., and is open to the public.

Russo has served as the musical director for more than 15 shows at the Goodspeed Opera House including “Half a Sixpence”, “Singing in the Rain”,” Call Me Madam”, “No, No Nanette” and “The Apple Tree”.

In 2012, he embarked on the maiden voyage of “Goodspeed at Sea” where he was both a lecturer and the cabaret director.

In addition to his extensive work with the Goodspeed, Russo worked on the national tour of “The Boy Friend,” directed by Julie Andrews, composed incidental music for The Glass Menagerie with Joanne Woodward at Long Wharf Theatre, conducted “By Jeeves” on Broadway and has worked with the Pittsburgh Public Theatre, The Lyric Stage Company of Boston, Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, Barrington Stage Company, The Asolo Theater in Sarasota, Fla and the Williamstown Theatre Festival Cabaret.

Russo served on the faculties of Circle in the Square Theatre School, The Boston Conservatory, and The Juilliard School.

Russo will be available to answer questions following the presentation and will lead a Broadway Show Tune sing-along on the library’s baby grand piano. Visit www. artsforeasthamptonct.org or arts@easthamptonct.org for information.