The Wizard of Oz

This was the first full-scale musical production from CLOGS Musical Theatre’s Youth Group – The Clogettes - and what a terrific performance the packed Neeld Hall was treated to.

The production gave so many of the company the chance to show-off their singing, acting and dancing talents on the same stage as the adult group - and the whole cast were completely unphased by all of the staging and technical requirements.

There were strong performances all round. Dorothy was charming, so well-rehearsed and held the whole production together. Her rendition of ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow” was particularly moving. There were impressive performances from the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion, but the chemistry between the three of them was terrific and really enhanced the production overall. Toto’s transition from real to acted dog worked really well and there was a lovely performance and ballet from Glinda. The Wizard projected and acted strongly. The Wicked Witch of the West really made the best of her part and I shall remember that evil laugh for a long time to come! There were lots of smaller parts and lines for many of the cast, who all really took their chances to shine.

The movement and choreography were very effective and well-executed and suited to the group. I particularly enjoyed the energy and enthusiasm in the ‘Jitterbugs’ number.

This was also a technically very challenging show. The lighting was great and added mood and colour to the production. The projection too worked really well – particularly the effect used for the Tornado. The staging enhanced the production and was efficiently managed. The backing track music was well sequenced and followed and there was a lot of it to control. Sound is always a challenge in this venue and there were a lot of microphones being run but on the whole lines could be heard and were well-cued. This was all supported and delivered by the adult member of CLOGs and it was really great to see them supporting the Clogettes in such numbers and with such keenness.

A large and  enthusiastic audience loved every minute of it.

Thank you Clogettes for a wonderful evening’s entertainment  - another step on your journey of just getting better and better!   Well done to everyone involved both on and off-stage.

I look forward to your future productions!

Matt Heaton

NODA South West Regional Editor

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