“State Fair” is the only R&H musical written specifically for the screen. No wonder! There are so many set changes. How the heck would they have staged the pivotal roller
coaster and ferris wheel scenes?

I just love this musical. I forgot how often I used to watch it. I always claimed that “Oklahoma
!” was my favorite musical, because Laurey had blonde hair. Like I do. This was a very sensible rationalization when I was younger.

I also liked Ariel the most (Disney) because her name started with an A. Like mine does…Margey, a brunette, was always relegated to third place for me— right behind Julie, from “Carousel.” Again, in hindsight, I think I just liked Shirely Jones’s hair. So, if anything, as I’ve grown up, I’ve become less superficial! I think that’s commendable!

In reality, I probably watched “State Fair” more frequently than any other R&H musical. I totally remember long road trips in the car, sitting with Haley and Ryan, and singing along to the opening song. Aptly titled, “Our State Fair”.

The story focuses on a family who travels to their state fair, “the best state fair in
[their] state”. (Are there multiple state fairs in a state? This line confuses me, and always has. I would think that a state
fair would be THE State Fair. It seems counterintuitive to invest
resources in multiple state fairs…) There’s singing, and dancing and beautiful clothing! There’s also some great humor. Look out for the accidental additions of excess brandy to the mincemeat! Slash, if you like pigs, you’ll love Blue Boy.