Wizard of Oz

Upchurch Players, you are my first panto of the year, and what a start! Kay Wright as Director you made this Wizard fun to watch, you chose your cast perfectly from a delightful Jasmine-Ann Chambers opening as Madame Fairy, to your ensemble players.

Emma Botly - what a star performance as Dorothy; this young lady gave us a beautifully controlled performance throughout whether in acting, singing or dance. Emma is the youngest Dorothy I have ever seen, great control well done Emma. Toto the dog, now that’s how to play it, what a talent this young lady has, great acting from Tamsyn Furneaux never faltered and in control, a perfect Toto the dog. 

Of course, we had seasoned players playing the Lion (Adam James), Tin Man (Venessa Chambers) ,and a floppy Scarecrow (Alison Lewin) - these three had perfect characterisation throughout, such a well-balanced team. Costumes and make up were great and for these three exceptional - this being in the capable hands of Alison Lewin (Costumes) and Make up (Kim Rackley). May Day (John Russel) another seasoned player and it showed, John took the part and made it his own, giving his audience what they wanted, a little bit of smut here and there, and of course his chosen man in the audience played along with him. John's costume changes were swift and he looked as a dame should, over the top.

The Villains, Hayley Christine, Bex Currier, Natalie Radlett, Kelsey Walker, Lennie Pullen and all, weaving their evil spell well. Dancers Ella-May, Juliette, Poppy, and Summer. Simple but effective choreography by Chesca Butcher executed well by all. Well done, Chesca.

Tim Higgins as Stage Manager, Dave Neale Lighting and sound all supported by Noel Dolliemoe, Henry Chambers, Lily Dollimore. Oh, and Maisie on prompt…great work guys.

Kay Wright as Director and Musical Director, you gave your audience your professional touch to this Wizard and also looking a vision in red sequins as Queen Scalet. With twenty-two in the cast and goodness knows how many backstage I can’t mention all of you but believe me you are all as important as those on stage. Without you there wouldn’t have been a show.

Congratulations go out to all working in the background for making this Wizard of Oz a success for Upchurch Players.

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