The Wizard of Oz

Thank you for inviting me to your production of The Wizard of Oz.

It is quite a big ask to work with a cast of 31 including six children and a dog and to bring this iconic story to the stage, but it was clear that together, the cast and directing team had done just that. The four principals had been very well cast with excellent singing voices and very strong characterisation and what a star Bear the Pomeranian was, so calm and placid as he was wrenched from Dorothy’s arms by Mrs Gulch and able to bark on cue. They worked together extremely well and very naturally. I was pleased that the cast all had American accents which added to the authenticity of the production. The ensemble were kept very busy playing Munchkins, Ozians, Crows, Trees, Poppies, Winkies, Jitterbugs and Monkeys and together they sang and danced with great energy and enthusiasm giving great support to the principals.

The set was very simple, using contrasts in colour to depict the differences between the Kansas and Oz with projections and clever lighting to transport the audience to the different locations. Costuming for this production was also very imaginative, colourful, and characterful, helping to establish character, location and the overall concept of this famous story. The strong contrast between that blacks, whites and greys in Kansas with the bight and colourful costumes once we arrived in the land of Oz was very effective.

Well, done for putting on this iconic show with its well-known story and songs. It was clear that everyone on stage was having a great time performing together.

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