The Wizard of Oz

Traditionally televised at Christmas when I was growing up, the Wizard of Oz remains one of my favourite movies.  Filmed just as colour became available on celluloid for the first time, it began in black and white and transformed to colour as Dorothy arrives in Oz, it was a memorable fairy tale. Coming to see the stage version I was secretly hoping to be just as mesmerised.

I was not disappointed.

As the curtains open, you’re met with views across the farmlands of Kansas projected onto the backdrop. This is the outlook of the Gale homestead, complete with trap door to the storm bunker, a white picket fence and the house.  On the veranda is a chair which rocks in the wind. It is one of so many tiny details lovingly added by Director, Philip Cox which enhance the storytelling.

The early scenes are a chance to meet and get a feel for the characters who would follow us into Oz.  Dorothy’s little dog, Toto was imaginatively (and adorably) portrayed by puppet and it’s operator who  stole many hearts.  He managed the puppet beautifully,  mirroring many of the moves.

We meet the cruel Miss Gulch who takes Toto away to what promises to be a horrible fate… Toto escapes and Dorothy runs away, meeting on her flight the fairground entertainer who warns her to get out of the oncoming storm.  The tornado strikes and – it’s too late for Dorothy who ends up unconscious after being struck on the head.

After a smooth, imaginative and nicely lit transition, Dorothy wakes up in the gloriously bright and magical land of Oz.

This was a beautifully crafted show, lovely chorography, nicely rehearsed vocals and there were so many details painted into the story from the mischievously funny crow puppets to the use of the balconies during the poppy scene,  where the poppies were carefully choreographed to show off their stunning hats, the fabulous melting scene.

It is a challenge to pick out all the good bits without quoting huge chunks of the show, but the Emerald City was quite spectacular, the opening tableaus, the dances and costume. The musical numbers from start to finish had not a foot out of place, the lyrics were audible and smiles remained intact throughout.

It was great to see the song that didn’t make it into the film – the Jitterbug this was a lovely moment and all performers created some real stage magic.

And there were some really lovely performances, Dorothy was entrancing – such a huge part to learn, and played with charm, great vocals and real style. The Scarecrow was an enviably agile, energetic performer with clear experience of physical theatre, a joy to watch, as were the charismatic lion and the beguiling tin man.

Glinda (also Aunt Em) was captivating, with lovely vocals and the Wicked Witch of the West was very nicely played - deliciously evil with a just a glimpse of humour now and then.

Shows are such a team effort and the choruses of monkeys, flowers, the Trees With Issues  (lovely costumes) and the brilliant munchkins worked very hard indeed and it paid off – these performances completed the show.

The scenery and set were excellent as were the lighting, sound and effects but a special note must go the costume and makeup – the work and ingenuity that went into the costumes was very apparent, particularly in the character make up and in the Emerald City – the effect was magical.

This was an enchanting show which is still captivating generations – including myself and the five year old little girl who joined me as a guest. It held her spellbound throughout which stands as a testament to the choice and execution of such a special story.

What a lovely introduction to TAOS Musical Theatre – congratulations guys!

 

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