The Wiz

The Wiz is a re-telling of the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz.  The original Broadway Musical of The Wiz was originally written 1975 with an all African American cast. Essentially however, the story is the same and the music more vibrant and yet soulful.

From the first notes of the simply superb orchestra we just knew we were in for a special evening and so it proved to be, but I cannot move on without complimenting Simon Pickup and every single member of this great orchestra.  

The whole production was something of a technical marvel, in that the ‘scenery’ was all done with overhead projection and produced some simply marvellous effects, crows flying over a corn field and walking across a yellow brick road had me quite fascinated, and together with the rather wonderful pyrotechnics was quite simply superb.

The lighting generally was good – although on a very personal note I missed quite a lot of the, (obviously wonderful from the bit I saw) dance routine which was the storm because of the relentless flashing lights – just a thought but could the flash not have built up rather than being ‘full-on from the beginning of the number?  That small criticism should in no way detract from the excellent costume and routine and the superb effect it created and both the director, choreographer and indeed the entire chorus are to be most heartily congratulated on a superb routine.

On occasions,  when a show is very technical, there is a danger that the cast can almost be upstaged by all the ‘technicals’ this was absolutely NOT the case in this production – there was some really superb acting, with believable characters and relationships.  The stage was bursting with obvious and real talent, displaying good facial expressions and some simply excellent comic timing.  The is one of the occasions when it really would be grossly unfair to pick out any one person as there was not a weak link anywhere – well done – everyone.    

I was not always absolutely convinced by the sound balance, the music was certainly very loud which in turn meant that the microphone had to be turned up which in turn meant that some of the singing on occasions sounded a little harsh.

Overall it really was a great all round show – I loved the entrances of Adaperle on a mobility scooter complete with air-horn and as always it was very easy to appreciate the hard work which has gone into this production. Full of fantastic dancing and wonderful acting, and a stage choc full of confident and talented young people who were clearly enjoying themselves hugely.  Thank you SO much to everyone concerned with this production and for, as always making me so welcome.

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