The Wizard of Oz

Vale Royal are back on stage this week with their 2022 production of the classic The Wizard of Oz at the Memorial Court Theatre in Northwich. This production had all of the visual and audible things that we come to expect, which certainly entertained their supportive audiences. Sally Ross took on the role(s) of Director, Choreographer and Musical Director – no mean feat – but the lack of clarity in all three areas certainly showed. For me, there were errors throughout this production which gave it a strong amateur feel. Unfortunately, some of the comments I’m making in this review have already been said in previous reviews which show that there is a lack of clarity of understanding. The programme is a little jarring again with the font sizes/styles and lack of clarity with scene numbers, as well as a typo on the front cover. Whilst I understand the thought process with casting different actors in Kansas to those ‘Over the rainbow’ with reference to costume and make up etc, this jars with the text in both act 1 and again at the end of the show when Dorothy says that she saw them in her dreams etc. I also question the distinct lack of American accents from a lot of the cast. The choreography was very basic and whilst I liked some of the shaping ideas within dances, it lacked any real flair. I did like the choreography for Jitterbug however, which was more inventive. Whilst the orchestra sounded great and really enjoyed listening to the different sections (great use of bass guitar and flute), I felt that too many of the songs were conducted too slowly; with some at half speed. There was a distinct lack of clarity in musical direction with actors coming into songs at the wrong times and singing out of key throughout.

That being said, the audience didn’t care about any of this. The supportive audience were enthralled throughout and clapped along to songs and scenes. Visually, this was lovely to watch. The set, costumes and lighting helped add layers to scenes, establish characters and convey storyline. The use of cloths to aid scene changes was brilliant and really helped with the overall pace. Scene changes were swift and very well-choreographed.  The costumes were fab also and visually delightful! I loved the costumes for the main four characters, but equally good were the costumes for the West Witch, Glinda etc. The set was great too and really helped with the overall feel. Lights were used to add layers to scenes, and I really enjoyed the colours and tones used. Sadly, the same cannot be said for the mics and quality of the sound. Some actor’s mics were not cued in time or switched on (Uncle Henry for example) but it was the levels of some of the mics (Dorothy in particular) and the blend between cast, band and audience that I had a real issue with.

The four main characters were very well cast, and each told their story very well. Pam Hewitt was excellent as the protagonist Dorothy. This was a tour de force performance from Pam. She gave me tons of Judy Garland vibes and used both her physicality and vocality to convey character. Pam had great storytelling too and this was a fantastic showcase for her obvious talent. Beau was excellent as Toto who stayed in role throughout! Woof!

Sammi Hatton had some lovely physicality and storytelling as The Scarecrow and was well cast in this role. I really liked her rapport with the other actors too and I could feel a sense of camaraderie between them all. Joe Moore portrayed The Tin Man and showcased some great facial expressions and physicality too – an entertaining performance. I loved the vocality that Jake Broadhurst brought to the role of The Lion. He used his voice brilliantly to convey cowardice – although it would’ve been nice to hear an American accent. All four actors had great comic timing and showcased their talent to aid this classic tale.

Other notable mentions have to go to Becky Benson as Glinda the Good Witch and Tracey Stothard (The West Witch) who both used their voices and physicality to convey character. I liked Becky’s poise and stage presence and loved the way in which Tracey brought an earthiness to her role. David Lee showcased good storytelling as The Wizard of Oz too.

I have to say that whilst there were some lovely direction and acting with the main supporting cast, some of the commitment from some wasn’t great. Some of them broke the fourth wall and looked bored at times on stage, whilst others performed brilliantly and gave 100% to every scene to those - your commitment and dedication didn’t go unnoticed, and you stood out with your positive energy. Whilst I have been very opinionated and particularly negative at times in this review, I feel that this society are making leaps and bounds, and this production has been one of the best that I’ve seen from this society.

I have to say that for those in the audience who came to see this classic tale onstage were not disappointed. Visually, this was a treat, and it was clear from the audience’s reaction that a good time was had by all. A testament to the support for this all-inclusive society.

I thank Vale Royal Musical Theatre for their kind invitation and wish them all the very best for their next productions of Young Frankenstein in July 2023 and Treasure Island in November 2022.

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