Oklahoma's Dust Bowl history comes to life on Ritz Theatre stage

Oklahoma is rich with history, and it wouldn’t be Oklahoma history without the Dust Bowl. Local language teacher Delinda Curtis is taking a different approach in teaching her students about the Dust Bowl days.
Through music, costumes and characters, Curtis brings the past back to life in “Coming Out of the Dust,” a musical centennial celebration written by Curtis.
“We have fictional and non-fictional characters that pay tribute to the ordinary heroes of the time,” Curtis said.
Audiences will see Dust Bowl players like Dorothea Lange, photographer of the “Migrant Mother;” Leo Hart, who built a school for Oklahoman children when they were ostracized from California schools; and radio broadcasters, who gave Oklahomans a voice during the times.
The musical will be featured at 7 p.m. May 17 and May 19 at the Ritz. Twenty-eight students ranging from sixth grade to eighth grade will make up the cast of the play, and local bluegrass-gospel entertainers Liberty Creek Band will provide the music.
Curtis said her students at South Rock Creek were studying the Great Depression and Oklahoma’s involvement when she decided to write the play in 2003. The story is based on Library of Congress’ “Voices from the Dust,” literature studies from “Children of the Dustbowl” and studies of Karen Hessee’s novel “Out of the Dust.”
Cullen Walker, who plays one of the radio announcers, said he wasn’t sure what to expect when he was cast in the play, but he thinks it is a good way to learn about history.
Kathryn Kim, who is cast as Ruby in the
play, said the play provides a way for students to find out how people survived during the Great Depression.
Curtis said, “With some folksy ‘Woody Guthrie’ tunes, these forces will lead you through the desperate times of the Dust Bowl and those inspiring Okies who through their grit, determination and faith faced extraordinary times.
“The play will feature a variety of familiar tunes along with a historical account of how ordinary people through their artistic gifts were able to bring hope to the Okie’s plight,” she said.
Curtis said the play developed because she wanted her children to be exposed to Oklahoman’s story and to know bluegrass music. She said that by studying the problems Oklahomans faced during the Great Depression provides a learning experience for everyone.
“I just can’t think of a more effective way to truly understand the trials that folks go through than role-playing,” Curtis said.
Tickets are $5 for adults and $2 for students and senior citizens (older than 65). Tickets are available at South Rock Creek School or by calling 213-1959 or 273-8660.
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Amanda Gire may be reached at amanda.gire@news-star.com or at 214-3934.