The Wizard of Oz

Warmly welcomed, as always by David Fairclough and his team, and after the obligatory purchase of our raffle tickets, we took our seats looking forward to a good evening's performance. This was Performing Arts Company's first real show following the Covid 19 restrictions. What became evident from the beginning was that this was a show that the cast had been really looking forward to and from the entrance of Dorothy, Toto (yes a real live dog) and the rest of the cast they were here to enjoy themselves, and this they certainly did. Between Kevin Warne (Director), Fay Anteney and Beth Bailey (joint choreographers for the Adults and Children) they had been well drilled and were all on point, in step, on time and given that this was opening night, error free. The set, (supplied by Scenery Solutions) was a large affair with good sized book flats, trucks and props all very well lit (programmed by Craig Cotton and operated by Ben Lucas) and was really well used by the cast. The complicated set changes were hidden by the use of manually drawn backcloths, especially the change to the Wizards castle and the Wicked Witch's lair, and were swift and importantly quiet. Well done to the backstage crew here led by David Pointer Stage Manager. 

The costumes were superb, very colourful and bright, especially the Munchkins and the Winkies. Some were hired, some borrowed but most made by Kay Warne and her dedicated team. I'm sure that the midnight oil was burned, they were amazing. The combination of this, the lighting and the set gave us a real visual feast. 

The principle performances were extremely good, led by Beth Warne as Dorothy (a name I was unfamiliar with, but am sure will hear a lot more of in the future), Ben Smart as Scarecrow, Owen Harris as Tinman, the very green and evil Paige Ottaway as the Wicked Witch of the West and Lewis Philpot as the cowardly lion. All full of confidence, great diction and enthusiastic deliveries. The star of the show (as will always be with Wizard) was Toto, played by Milo, never upstaging his human principles (what never?... well hardly ever) never got in the way or under their feet! very well trained and well used.

Overall this was a very enjoyable, well produced show, full of energy and smiles. Well done Performing Arts Company, welcome back.

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