The Wizard of Oz

Dewsbury Collegians’ production of The Wizard of Oz opened with visual flair and theatrical imagination. From the very first moment, the atmosphere was set through the use of a full stage-sized digital display, which projected immersive scenic backdrops throughout. This innovative approach allowed for seamless transitions and was complemented by a minimal physical set, cleverly used to enhance rather than clutter the stage.

The show opened in Kansas, remaining faithful to the original film with muted costume tones that reflected the sepia palette of the movie. We were introduced to Hayley Metcalf as Dorothy, alongside Aunt Em (Sue Cunningham), Uncle Henry (Jai Jai Ekins), and their farmhands Hickory (Richard Armstrong), Hunk (Paul Metcalfe), and Zeke (Jason Sykes). The group quickly established a familial and grounded tone as they prepared for the impending storm, with subtle nods to their fantastical counterparts in Oz already embedded in their characterisation.

Rachel Warlop made a memorable entrance as the stern and meddling Almira Gulch, bringing sharp energy to the role and setting the stage for Dorothy’s journey. Metcalf’s rendition of Over the Rainbow was a clear highlight of the first act — her vocal strength and emotional delivery marked her out as a confident and compelling lead.

The shift to Oz was visually striking. Chris Nuttall as Professor Marvel added warmth and charisma, and the transition through the tornado into the vibrant world of Oz was handled beautifully through a combination of projections and lighting. Grace Allen’s Glinda was graceful and vocally refined, delivering her lines and music with a gentle authority that suited the role perfectly.

One artistic choice that stood out was the casting of adults in the roles of the Munchkinland officials — a curious decision, particularly given the strong capability of the children on stage. The choreography for Ding Dong! The Witch is Dead and the Munchkin musical numbers was delightful and showcased the young cast’s potential. It would be encouraging to see these talented performers entrusted with larger roles in future productions.

The journey down the Yellow Brick Road brought a trio of outstanding performances. Paul Metcalfe as the Scarecrow was mesmerising, using floppy, exaggerated movement to great effect. Richard Armstrong’s Tin Man had a commanding physicality and a rich vocal tone, while Jason Sykes delivered a pitch-perfect Cowardly Lion, impressively channeling the voice and mannerisms of the film’s original.

Rachel Warlop returned in her alter ego role as the Wicked Witch of the West, offering a sharply contrasting performance that demonstrated impressive range. Her dramatic demise was well executed, especially considering the technical challenge of the height from which it was staged.

Jai Jai Ekins brought warmth and humour as the Emerald City Guard, energising the stage with every jump and line delivery. Lee Sharratt made a strong impression as The Wizard of Oz, combining a resonant voice with effective projection work to create an air of mystery and grandeur around the character.

The use of a wrap-around stage extension was a smart choice, allowing for fluid movement and aiding scene transitions. Though a few technical hiccups were noticeable — with scenery occasionally delayed or misaligned — the cast handled these moments with professionalism and poise. At times, the orchestra, under the baton of Millie Ramsden, overpowered the principal vocals, but this did not detract significantly from the overall experience.

In all, Director and Choreographer Michael A Kirkby has delivered a heartfelt and visually creative production. The passion of the cast was evident throughout, and the show left audiences with a strong reminder of the importance of kindness, friendship, and the comforting power of home.

Congratulations to all involved in this magical and memorable production.

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