The Wizard of Oz

                                 THE WIZARD OF OZ       

Willand Theatrical Society                                  Willand Village Hall 19thFebruary

Director Natalie Ballantyne           Musical Maestro Roger Leaver 

 

There was a very nice welcome when I arrived at Willand Village Hall, thank you, there was also a great atmosphere, in anticipation of what was to come!

The costumes were very colourful along with the set that was simple but effective including projection that was a nice touch.

The cast had good energy and vibe, and you could see they were enjoying every minute of it, so came over to the audience very well. The audience participation was very enthusiastic but at times intrusive, especially for the actors, but they coped with it well and took it in their stride!

Dorothy -Izzy 

Performed exceptionally well for such a tender age and took me by surprise when she sang “Somewhere over the rainbow” so beautifully. just perfect!

Toto -Ellie

Made a super character of Toto, really brought out the humour and delivered the one-liners with skill and appropriate actions, getting his much-desired biscuit in the end. Good costume.  

Margarette- Kaitlyn

Was charming, looked good but needed to smile more and look genuinely pleased to meet up with her handsome Prince, bringing some confidence to the role, but well done.

Aunt Em-Ollie 

Made the perfect dame with great attitude, not only looked good but had a very good voice to match the character, he was pacy, energetic and had the audience eating out of his hand! Some great costumes.

Witch of the North -Elaine

This part was tailor made for Elaine as she had that cheeky look and her timing was excellent; she had everyone on her side!

Witch of the South -Maggie

Played on her age and used it to her advantage, sometimes deliberately bumbling as the wise, endearing and friendly witch that she was.

Wicked Witch of the West -Alison

Played the role very well, good speedy entrances and a strong voice! Positively lapped up the boos from the appreciative audience and revelled in playing this standout character.

Scarecrow -Pete

He was every inch the scarecrow with great moves and performed brilliantly without a brain! Super stuff!

Tinman-Hayley

Was very good, movements were super and the costume looked especially impressive, her timing was great along with super diction.

Lion-Tania 

This is a super role, the cowardly Lion seeking courage but actually much braver than he knew. Tania did not disappoint. her costume looked delightful, but what was so convincing was that her own hair was incorporated in the mane and it worked very well I think it was coloured for the occasion, if so, what dedication!

Woodlander-Frances 

Brought real comedy to the role her walk across the stage together with a lovely rural accent complemented her part extremely well!

Gatekeeper-Jade 

Did the same as the Woodlander, really funny, if they were to be placed as a duo, perhaps in the next Pantomime, they would do extremely well. True comedy subtly done!

Prince -Daisy  

Looked super as the prince, performed well and sung well too! Needed to be more convincing in his interaction with the Princess.a little more feeling and affection between the two would have been nice. A good performance none the less!

Chamberlain -Mary -Jane

Super performance with good speaking voice, also looked good, with a super costume.

Wizard -Elijah

Great costume and performed well and with authority.

The Munchkins/cityite’s Ella, Cassandra,, Tania y, and Jade gave it their all!

 The Director, Natalie Ballantyne is to be congratulated, her first time directing (all those sleepless nights paid off!)  Congratulations to the MM Roger Leaver, along with sound and lighting, projection, everyone involved in this jolly pantomime and indeed, chaperones, front of house and those that make tea and coffee, should be thanked, as none of this just happens overnight and takes enthusiasm and commitment. A great hobby with lots of fun and laughter along the way, plus local entertainment much appreciated by those who come to see it. Well, done, one and all!

Graham Liverton 

NODA immediate Past President 

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