The Wizard of Oz

No one can dispute that ‘The Wizard of Oz’ is a classic American fantasy adventure.  The story based on L. Frank Baum’s novel is legendary with unforgettable songs and familiar characters we have all grown up to know and love.  It has been some time since I last had the opportunity to see the stage show and this bright production of the RSC version with the music and lyrics of the MGM motion picture score did not disappoint.  Amy Sutherland rose well to the challenge of portraying the main character, Dorothy Gale with great ease.  Rebecca Anderson (Scarecrow), Malcolm McNulty (Tinman) and Shirley McNulty (Lion) all interacted extremely well with each other bringing the necessary attributes to portray their respective characters.  Claire Fraser provided a graceful performance in her portrayal of Glinda the Good Witch, contrasting well with Carol Sutherland who was well cast as a suitably evil Wicked Witch and a rather intimidating Miss Gultch.  Bob Clark competently took on the roles of Professor Marvel and the Wizard and Eric Brown performed well as Uncle Henry.   The other principals were also well cast and together with the children as Munchkins and members of the chorus as older Munchkins, they all contributed to the success of this production through their music and drama.  However, I should not forget Toto, or should I say Dylan, a well disciplined two year old Yorkshire terrier whose performance added to my enjoyment.  This was a wonderful visit to OZ and I must also add that it was again a privilege to have been invited by Elizabeth Donald to Falkirk.

Reviewer, David Black, NODA Scotland District 5

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