The Wizard of Oz

Based on a 1900 novel by L.Frank Baum a film version of “The Wizard of Oz” was made in 1939 written by Noel Langley, Florence Ryerson and Edgar Allan Woolf. The Royal Shakespeare Company produced a popular stage adaption in 1987 based on that film, and incorporating additional songs by Andrew Lloyd Webber & Tim Rice! Imelda Staunton starred as Dorothy back then!! 

The Glees’ Set was backed by high painted  flats which opened up on occasion. These were lit in black/white for the ‘twister’ and then in multicolour for Munchkinland. The lighting throughout was well designed with some beautiful coloured beams and hazes. I did so love the effect created at the end of the first act as the four trusty friends walked away into the gloom. Sound and effects were always on time and the wide variety of costumes played a large part in the production. The poppy patterned dresses were an original choice for the sleep-inducing poppy field and the apple trees were great. The colour choices of the munchkins were lovely and Glinda’s huge pink and silver crinoline was spectacular! I loved the fact that Dorothy’s gingham dress changed colour according to the situation – black & white for the storm, then blue &white  and finally green & white for the Emerald City! Costumes and make-up for the three ‘friends’ was excellent, particularly for Scarecrow and Lion; sadly Tin Man’s silver shoulders and arms were a bit the worse for wear. The Wicked Witch’s make-up was brilliant -so good that it emphasised the whites of her eyes which looked really evil! 

Anna Moore took the role of Dorothy, the teenage orphan brought up by a loving uncle and aunt on their Kansas farm. Diarmuid Taggart and Susan Leneghan played Uncle Henry and Aunt Em as hard working farmers and caring father and mother figures. Anna was convincing as the strong and somewhat unappreciative niece who ran away when she felt she did not get enough support when her little dog fell foul of the nasty Miss Gulch. Of course she came into her own when she found herself  “over the rainbow” in Oz. That famous song, which comes early in the show was sweetly sung by her. When Dorothy made friends with Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion, Anna shared good comedy and dance rapport with them all. Many roles are double cast in this show – for a reason. The nasty Miss Gulch becomes the even nastier Wicked Witch of the West - Emma Nugent made a perfect villain who was recognisable as she displayed the mean spirited  and vengeful traits of Miss Gulch. Her cackling laugh was just right for a murderous witch. Changing from Farm Hands were Allen Gordan (Hunk) who became Scarecrow, Josh Clarke (Hickory) who became Tin Man, and Francis McKinney (Zeke) who became the Cowardly Lion. Allen was energetic in the portrayal of someone whose legs are made of straw! Josh managed his rather restricting ‘tin’ costume well – even joining the dances; and Francis was gentle natured but agitated and blustery when possible dangerous plans were discussed! These three made an appealing trio of companions for Dorothy as they ‘followed the yellow brick road’ (which was conveniently laid down the centre aisle of the auditorium!  Looking like a fairy queen, Emma Jane inspired the feeling of a gracious and benevolent protector as Glinda, the Good Witch.  

Sean Trainer made the most of the double role of Professor Marvel and the Wizard of Oz. The two characters are regarded with suspicion as being frauds, but Sean  brought them to life in an amiable manner with good-humoured trickery. With Finbar 

Finnegan playing the self-important Emerald City Guard and many others playing minor roles, the story moved swiftly with humour and enthusiasm. I was a bit disappointed that we didn’t see more of Cassie who played Toto, Dorothy’s little dog. She never got a chance to walk on the yellow brick road but maybe the steps from the stage were too much for him! The large ensemble were obviously enjoying their roles as Ozians and Emerald City folk -  and becoming Crows, Apple Trees, Poppies, Snowflakes, Monkeys, Jitterbugs, Winkies etc! I especially enjoyed seeing the 3 grown men in their ridiculous roles representing the Lollipop League!!  

I was a bit surprised when I heard that the ‘Glees’ were performing The Wizard of Oz as it is usually the choice of youth groups! However I was confident that the production team would find a way to make it ‘different’ and I was right! Although absolutely true to the RSC script and story, there was a new and fresh feel to this production. MD Mark Tilley was in full control of his 11 piece orchestra and those on stage even though they were accommodated in a backstage room, and he was visible to the cast on a TV monitor. Director Laura Kerr and Choreographer Amy Blackshaw brought out the best in their performers and worked well together to reinforce the ideas that everyone can reach their goal by helping each other and evil will be defeated! Another big plus is that the audience leaves singing the well loved songs -I certainly did! 

My grateful thanks go to all the people who contributed to an evening of entertainment and memories. It being my last visit as NODA Representative I was thrilled to bits with the beautiful bouquet of flowers presented to me. I have had the pleasure of attending around 20 years of Glees’s productions and have enjoyed every one. I can assure you that you will be well cared for by Jim McGuigan from January 2026 and he has said he might invite me to accompany him on occasion in the future!!

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