The Wizard of Oz

~~This iconic musical was made famous by the 1939 Movie starring the great Judy Garland and has seen many productions and revivals since that time. St Ambrose Players are well known for their high standard of Musicals presented by this Leyland based company and I was looking forward to this their latest offering.  I had a very enjoyable visit.
St Ambrose Players are noted for the design and construction of some excellent scenery for their productions and this was no exception. Having had experience of both sides of the “footlights” I know how important this is to the success of any show and once again they have excelled. Every scene change was slick and quick and therefore the story unfolded seamlessly as the show progressed.    Congratulations to all concerned.
The original script was adapted by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company and as this was my first viewing of this particular version I was looking forward to the evening.
The whole production was full of energy from start to finish and apart from some instances of lack of projection together with some overloud accompaniment the pace was fast and furious, just as it should be. There were some quieter moments however, especially the lovely rendition of “Somewhere over the Rainbow” by the delightful Hannah Heaton as Dorothy. She handled Toto, (Stanley), the dog with a quiet confidence.  
 The trio of The Scarecrow, John Sangster, Tin Man, Steven Barnes and The Cowardly Lion, Matthew Clark were first class. Their characterizations  appealed to all age groups in the near capacity audience. Kirsty Chapman was excellent as the evil Wicked Witch of the West. Always in character she was booed at every entrance. Alison Griffiths Barnes as Glinda ensured that good overcame evil, as it always should. Two excellent cameo roles from Tim Braddy, Uncle Henry and Matt Morrell, The Wizard of Oz, ensured an overall entertaining production.  Jennie Barnes, choreographed some simple numbers for The Munchkins, Jitterbugs and Snowflakes and impressed in her solo numbers. Musicians, under the direction of Maria Green coped well with the challenging orchestration. The Wardrobe Department has dressed the show with their usual attention to detail and together with Lighting and Sound helped to make the show an undoubted success. Beverly Yates, Director must be delighted with her cast and crew and she is to be congratulated on the entire show..
Thank you for a very warm welcome to Jean and myself.

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