The Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz is a classic show that is beloved around the world.

What I really like about Digswell Players Expression is that it is a training ground for the youth of the society and it gives them a chance to grow and learn.  The directors Oli Baskerville, Alex Brown and Charlotte Fossey are all part of the Expressions group, this is a youth production in every aspect of the show.  They did a great job many adults would have been pleased.

Lighting and sound were also controlled by members of Expression, both Alex Brown and Adam Grant doing a good job.

Eva Harrison played the title role of Dorothy. This is an iconic role, and she really looked the part.  She delivered her lines well, and she had a sweet voice, all she needed to do was project a little more.  I loved the idea of Toto being played by Edwin Webster.

Zach Fernandez (Scarecrow), Harry Dobbs (Tin Man) and Sam Curzon (Lion) were the famous trio of characters.  All three had fabulous costumes they all looked exactly as they should.  Zach was energetic and he moved how I see a scarecrow would move if it could.  Harry as the Tin Man he had clear diction, however I felt he walked and moved normally, as the Tin Man he should have moved heavier with more limited, ridged movement.  Sam was outstanding as the Lion, vocally both accent and singing voice were great, and the characterisation was excellent.

Tilly Cambell played Glinda.  She had the stance necessary for Glinda and looked right.  When she smiled, she lite up the stage.  Anne Odunuga played the Wicked Witch she had a very good stage presence when on stage.

Michael Hunter played the Wizard of Oz, and he was very good but what impressed me more is how good he was not just in his part but in his work in the chorus numbers, as an experienced performer he stepped up and I hope some more inexperienced performers watched him

The chorus numbers were well thought out, it is very easy to mask on a smaller stage, but a lot of thought had gone into spacing.

The set was a good design and to be honest the one part of the show that is always difficult is the tornado, I liked the simple reveal that was decided on, it worked well in this venue.

The costumes were good, iconic costumes done well, well done.

I love this show; it was one of the first musicals I ever watched it’s a classic and this version was good and I sang along with this talented cast.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.