The Wizard of Oz

This was my first visit since I was elected in April, and it was a pleasure. Dorothy played by Thea Farman not only looked the part but was very good too. Toto (Bert) was really well behaved and drew an Aww from the audience on his first entrance. Scarecrow (Dexter Tikadar) Tinman (Andy McNally) and Cowardly Lion (Simon Rothwell) All showed a very good essence of their various different personalities, and their enthusiasm was infectious with the audience. They also caught the change from farmhand to Oz with a subtle touch.

The Wicked Witch (Gina Bingham) with excellent make-up and acting brought back the memory of the original Judy Garland film. Also, in the character of Miss Gulch she was a nasty neighbour.

Aunt Em/Glinda (Sarah Brown), and Uncle Henry/ Guard (Tom Marr), both played well and sympathetically. Professor Marvel/Wizard of Oz (Chris Berry) a fairly newcomer to the stage coped with these difficult parts.

The ensemble of singers and dancers mostly youngsters, some with speaking roles did their part with enthusiasm, I really particularly enjoyed the comical crows. All choreographed by Rowena Sweeney.

I was particularly impressed with how the young Producer Stephen Wrathall on the small stage managed to move 51 people around without it looking too crowded. Well done on an excellent production

The orchestra of mostly young people were led by another young man Jonathan Mitra, added much to the show.

The scenery was done with projection design which was effective and given the small stage worked well.

It was good to see a Society with so many young members and bodes well for it’s future. Thank you for a lovely evening.

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