The Wizard of Oz

This bright, cheerful and colourful show was a perfect choice for Digswell Players Expressions Group and first time directing team of Rebecca Burnside and Victoria Glew.The enthusiasm that came from the stage to the audience was infectious, and soon everyone was experiencing being “Over the Rainbow”. 

The costumes were excellent, particularly Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion, so much so that the actors and costumes became one.

The show was well cast with a great line up of main principals. Laura Nicholson, as Dorothy, looked perfect and sang beautifully with clear diction and an obvious connection with her audience.

Connie Marshall was excellent as the Scarecrow. She threw herself around, never lost the wobbly nature of her character, and sang brilliantly.

Hew Palmer was a great stiff and jerky Tin Man.  His character gave a good contrast to Delyth Wynne’s Lion, who was marvellously shaky and scared.

This was a very competent characterization which I enjoyed very much.

In amongst the many and varied characters within the show was Lucy Portalska who  was a suitably scary Wicked Witch, great projection and good command of the stage, and Imogen Carnegie who was a great Munchkin Mayor.  Such a big voice from a young person was perfect for the part.

Meredith Wynne made a convincing Good Witch but try to avoid glancing at the floor quite so much, you have a good voice so project it upwards and outwards so that it fills the hall. I know you can do it.

The chorus worked hard as Munchkins and Villagers of Oz.

The set was suitably neutral which gave the costumes that stand out factor. Good planning here.

MD Daniel Ephgrave and his small but very effective band supported the vocals well and were never too loud.

This is one of my favourite shows for both young and more experienced performers and I was impressed at how the directors had tackled the logistics of the different scene without too many long pauses. I congratulate you both. Well done.

Thank you for a great evening’s entertainment and as always, your generous hospitality.

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