Arts and science unite in OKC to fight disease

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The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, a key component of Oklahoma City‘s Innovation District, collected philanthropic contributions from the recently wrapped stint of ‘Oklahoma!‘ the musical at the Lyric Theater. OMRF is a leader in research and has forged Oklahoma’s growing biomedical industry. Funding from the musical performances will help this premier research institution conduct crucial biomedical research on issues and ailments ranging from autoimmune disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, aging, and genetics.

The connection between this classic American musical and OMRF is much closer than you would think. For 50 years, OMRF has received royalties from the show, originally gifted through playwright Lynn Riggs‘ estate. Riggs’ foundational work inspired Rodgers and Hammerstein’s production. After losing his wife to heart disease and daughter to cancer, Riggs became devoted to research for cures. His family’s share of royalties, left to OMRF, has contributed about $860,000 to date.

This unique connection demonstrates how cultural heritage can fuel innovation, funding research into heart disease and cancer while showcasing Oklahoma’s legacy on stages worldwide. Each performance of this musical sends research funding right into the heart of OKC’s Innovation District.

Thanks to the support, OMRF has produced impressive results. Throughout its history, OMRF has secured upwards of 700 domestic and international patents, with 27 active licenses from these patents. Their scientific discoveries have been a major catalyst for economic growth- in fact, 14 different spin-off biotechnology companies have opened as a result of their many patents.

Medical research growth is particularly impactful to our community because while the economic impact is significant, the tangible impact on individuals can be life-changing. A few of the major avenues of research going on right now could potentially improve the lives of countless people around the world. A focus on the molecular causes of muscle loss during aging could improve quality of life for our seniors, while an ongoing examination into brain development in the womb can serve to help infants and newborns.  Finding medical solutions for folks around the world leaves a massive impact and is yet another example of how OKC is impacting the modern world.

The legacy behind this research institution reminds us that the power of human creativity can take many forms. Each performance of Oklahoma! carries forward Lynn Riggs’ quiet wish to turn loss into healing, connecting art and science in a powerful way.

Kenton Tsoodle is president of the Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.