The Wizard of Oz Jr.

This Wizard of Oz adaptation tailored for junior and middle school actors, contains much of the full classic tale, in which Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, whilst along the way meeting some unusual characters some of which very closely align with friends from home.

Four of the characters were doubled and so I was unable to watch those appearing for other performances (though I’m told they all performed well). The central character is of course Dorothy and for the performance I attended this was played by Florence Sinfield. Florence gave a completely natural performance, well-acted and full of musicality, taking the role completely in her stride. In the opening scene and later, good support was provided by Charlie Wilding as Uncle Henry, Erin Jones as Aunt Em and Grace Undy portraying well the mean neighbour Miss Gulch. Often Toto, Dorothy’s dog is missing from a production, so it was great to see this endearingly played by Felicity Smith, just 4 years old!

Having been transported to Oz, following a cyclone, Dorothy and Toto meet Glinda the Good Witch of the North, played with great grace and poise by Poppy Banks. Dorothy’s house landed on the Wicked Witch of the East and as a consequence we meet the Wicked Witch of the West who seeks vengeance. This was convincingly played by Kyesha Khan, who delivered her lines well at the right pitch and pace – I heard every word.

On Dorothy’s trip to find the Wizard, she meets three new friends; Scarecrow (Molly Branchett), Tin Man (Libby Faulkner) and Lion (Grace Palmer Jeffery). Each fulfilled their character very well, singing acting and moving well throughout. In fact the whole company moved well, carrying off some effective choreography. The company sang with confidence, accompanying backing tracks which is not always easy.

A number of other supporting characters were well portrayed including Professor Marvel (Archie Burton), Chief Munchkin (Tia Aygeman), The Wizard of Oz (Finley Munn), Nikko the winged monkey (Sylvie Undy) and Coroner / Mayor (Millie Stroyd). Without exception the cast were very well dressed with appropriate make up. The set was simple, several straw bales providing different levels, with some suitable props and screen projections to either side of the stage enhancing the scenes. Sound too was at the right level; overall a super production.

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