Shirley Jones was 21 years old when she starred as Laurey Williams in the iconic 1955 film adaptation of the Broadway musical Oklahoma!. Her youthful energy and remarkable talent made her performance unforgettable, solidifying her status as a beloved screen icon.
The Making of a Star: Shirley Jones and Oklahoma!
Shirley Jones, a fresh face with a powerful voice, was virtually unknown to Hollywood before being cast in Oklahoma!. Rodgers and Hammerstein, after an exhaustive search, handpicked her to play Laurey, a role that catapulted her to instant stardom. The film itself was a landmark achievement, bringing the beloved stage production to life on a grand cinematic scale, and Jones was at the heart of its success.
The Audition Process
The story of Jones’s casting is almost as captivating as the film itself. She was just 20 years old and working as a part-time usher at a Pittsburgh movie theater when she won the “Miss Pittsburgh Playhouse” talent contest. This victory led to an audition with Rodgers and Hammerstein in New York City. Impressed by her singing and acting abilities, they placed her under contract and ultimately cast her as Laurey, a role many actresses coveted.
The Impact of Oklahoma! on Her Career
Oklahoma! was not only a critical and commercial success, but it also established Shirley Jones as a leading lady in Hollywood musicals. It opened doors to numerous other roles, including memorable performances in Carousel (1956), April Love (1957), and The Music Man (1962). She transitioned seamlessly into other genres, proving her versatility as an actress.
Beyond Oklahoma!: A Look at Her Filmography
While Oklahoma! remains one of her most celebrated roles, Shirley Jones enjoyed a long and varied career in film, television, and stage. She consistently delivered captivating performances, showcasing her range and talent across different mediums.
Notable Film Roles
Beyond her musical work, Jones’s filmography includes dramatic roles, such as her Academy Award-winning performance in Elmer Gantry (1960), where she played Lulu Bains, a woman victimized by a charismatic con man. This role demonstrated her ability to tackle complex and challenging characters, further solidifying her reputation as a talented and versatile actress.
Television Successes
Shirley Jones also achieved significant success in television, most notably as Shirley Partridge in the popular sitcom The Partridge Family (1970-1974). This role introduced her to a new generation of viewers and cemented her status as a beloved figure in American pop culture. The show’s catchy theme song, “I Think I Love You,” became a major hit, further amplifying her fame.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Shirley Jones and her role in Oklahoma!
FAQ 1: What was Shirley Jones’s singing background before Oklahoma!?
Shirley Jones received formal voice training from a young age. She studied with various vocal coaches and performed in local theater productions before being discovered by Rodgers and Hammerstein. Her strong soprano voice and musicality were essential to her success as Laurey.
FAQ 2: Did Shirley Jones have any prior acting experience before landing the role of Laurey?
While she had performed in local theater productions and talent shows, Oklahoma! was her first major acting role. This made her casting even more remarkable and highlighted Rodgers and Hammerstein’s faith in her talent.
FAQ 3: Who were some of the other actresses considered for the role of Laurey?
Several established actresses were reportedly considered for the role of Laurey, but Rodgers and Hammerstein ultimately chose Jones for her fresh-faced innocence and vocal talent. The exact list of contenders is not publicly available, adding to the mystique surrounding her casting.
FAQ 4: Was the film Oklahoma! a critical and commercial success?
Yes, Oklahoma! was a major critical and commercial success. It won two Academy Awards (including Best Scoring of a Musical Picture) and was nominated for several others. The film’s box office success solidified its place as a classic of the Golden Age of Hollywood musicals.
FAQ 5: What songs did Shirley Jones sing in Oklahoma!?
Shirley Jones sang several iconic songs in Oklahoma!, including “Many a New Day,” “People Will Say We’re in Love” (with Gordon MacRae), and “Out of My Dreams.” These songs remain staples of the musical theater repertoire.
FAQ 6: How did Shirley Jones feel about playing Laurey Williams?
Shirley Jones has often expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to play Laurey Williams, stating that the role changed her life and launched her career. She has spoken fondly of her experiences working on the film and the lasting impact it had on her.
FAQ 7: What other musicals did Shirley Jones star in after Oklahoma!?
Following Oklahoma!, Shirley Jones starred in Carousel (1956), April Love (1957), The Music Man (1962), and several other musical films and stage productions. She became known for her versatility and talent in the genre.
FAQ 8: Did Shirley Jones ever return to the stage after her success in film?
Yes, Shirley Jones continued to perform on stage throughout her career, appearing in various theatrical productions and concert performances. She never abandoned her love for live performance.
FAQ 9: What is Shirley Jones doing today?
While she is less active in recent years, Shirley Jones continues to make occasional appearances and participate in events. She remains a respected and beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
FAQ 10: What is Shirley Jones’s legacy in Hollywood?
Shirley Jones’s legacy is that of a talented and versatile actress who made significant contributions to both film and television. She is remembered for her iconic roles in Oklahoma!, Elmer Gantry, and The Partridge Family, and for her dedication to her craft.
FAQ 11: Was Shirley Jones married to Jack Cassidy of the Partridge Family?
Yes, Shirley Jones was married to Jack Cassidy, although he wasn’t in The Partridge Family show itself. Their son, David Cassidy, was the teen idol star of the show. Shirley and Jack divorced in 1975.
FAQ 12: Has Shirley Jones written an autobiography?
Yes, Shirley Jones co-wrote an autobiography titled Shirley Jones: A Memoir, published in 2013. The book details her life, career, and personal experiences, offering insights into her journey to stardom and the challenges she faced along the way.