The Wiz

I have to confess that this is one of my favourite shows so I was looking forward to seeing this production.  I was not disappointed, Director and Choreographer Amy Clayton had captured the quirkiness of the show and the cast wholeheartedly embraced this.

Having directed the show myself, many years ago, I appreciated the need to interpret the characters into human form and I thought this was beautifully done.  The four main principals were terrific, both singly and as a group and the ensemble worked very hard with all the other characters.  I loved the Munchkins, I loved the Crows, I loved the Poppies, I loved the ‘road’ dancers.    I could go on, but you get my drift, this was a show to enjoy and it was full of exuberance from start to finish.

The ‘rocking’ score is great fun and Rachel Lane (Dorothy) was very good with both her character and her singing.  David Gillet was a delight as the Scarecrow, Martin Harris (Tinman) held the stage and his singing and movement was perfect for the character.  Allister Smith was pure magic as the Lion and, as I have already said, they made an excellent team.

As always, it is difficult to mention everybody by name but Lauren Tidbury (Addapearle) and Nina Jarram (Wicked Witch of the West) deserve credits for terrific characterisations and, Nina especially, for vocal delivery.  Jamie Fudge had a lot of fun as the gatekeeper and Justin Cartlidge (the Wizard) carried on regardless of a rather tricky dialogue slip!  The dancers worked extremely hard and one or two of them had so many costume changes it was a wonder they managed to get them all right!

I loved Amy’s choreography, especially for the Emerald City, it was absolutely right for the sense of the show.  The scenery was quite limited but this reflects the restrictions of the venue and I liked the simpleness of it.  

The lighting was well done but, yet again, I have to comment on the fact that some actors failed to remain in the lit spaces that were designed to show the scene.  Surely they can see when they do not have light on them?   It is something that I frequently comment on, particularly at this theatre. So I am beginning to wonder if the actors on stage can see that they are outside the lit area.  It is very irritating when a performer is speaking and standing just outside the lighting spot that was clearly designed for them to stand in!  It means we cannot see their expressions which is a great shame.

I loved the costumes and the attention to detail is to be commended.  Overall a great, fun show and it was clear that the company were enjoying themselves too.

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