The Wizard of Oz

The Wizard od Oz is a very popular show and is chosen a lot by theatre companies and is always extremely enjoyable because of the familar storyline of good conquering evil, the clever dialogue and probably most of all, the well-known songs. The production that I saw was however, the first that I have seen performed by a children’s section of a company. It brought a slightly different dimension to the plot in some ways - in that the Munchkins were played by children and were exceptionally delightful and there was a sweetness and innocence about the plot especially the simplistic good versus evil.

In this production there were thirty-three on a stage, which between scenes was easily changed quickly and efficiently to represent the farm, the land of Oz, the forest and the home of the witch. The four main characters who led us through the action were Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion (Millie Shepherd, Dominic Winton, Bradley Bullimore and Alfie Newman). These well-acted and well-sung characters had more to perform than the rest of the cast and were proficient in all that they did. These four were ably supported by quite a lot of other young actors in the other roles in the show.

The happy ensemble songs were all most entertaining. There was quite a mixture of ages in the Munchkins/citizens chorus, I am told the cast were from seven to sixteen years old. As it was the first show since lockdown, this would have been the first time on stage for many. They had been coached well. The costumes needed for The Wizard of Oz are quite varied and an efficient wardrobe group made a wonderful finished product.    

The three musicians on piano, bass guitar, percussion and drums made an excellent job of the original score. This production also included the “Jitterbug” music which is very often cut and it was really good to hear it included. Congratulations to performers, backstage crew and production team on a brilliant evening.        

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