The magic of Oz is on full display in this spectacular production!
The Wizard of Oz is the classic adaptation from the Royal Shakespeare Comedy of Frank Baum’s novel The Wizard of Oz which has become a beloved story. The musical features all the beloved songs and moments from the 1939 classic film live on stage. The story follows Dorothy Gale as she ends up in the wonderful world of Oz after a tornado takes her from her home in Kansas. To get back home to Auntie Em, Dorothy must visit the Wizard of Oz whilst dodging The Wicked Witch of the West. Along the way, she meets new friends and learns that there’s no place like home. This production is brought to stage by nearly 100 talented local actors as part of The Cresset Arts and Theatre School (CATS). I’ve seen previous productions from the company so I was certain they would bring this high-quality musical to life!
This production brings the whimsical world of Oz to life with fantastic acting and vocals. Director Stuart Morrison, alongside associate director Monique Benoiton-Smith, have created an enjoyable, energetic musical where you both the audience and cast are having the best time. Alongside them in the creative team, Emily Norman is credited for musical direction, Ken Norman is credited for technical musical direction and Chantelle Wilson is credited as dance captain. As well as a strong production team, the musical had a clear vision which was accomplished on stage. The use of screens helped transport the audience to Oz, working effectively when combined with other set pieces such as the bed on the side of the stage.
The ensemble are full of energy, with colourful and bright costuming which shines on stage. The vocal performances together sounded brilliant and their enthusiasm was very clear. Will Benoiton-Smith is the puppeteer behind Toto, Dorothy’s dog. Benoiton-Smith is able to effectively bring Toto to life whilst being involved with the numbers. Alan Ribakovs plays Uncle Henry/Emerald City Guard. Ribakovs works alongside the rest of the cast well, with strong dynamics and a clear accent.
Ginny Boyle plays Auntie Em. Boyle’s accent was strong and her dynamics with Dorothy were believable. Professor Marvel/Wizard of Oz is played by Adam Farrington. Farrington is whimsical in his portrayal which works well for the wizard and professor. Glinda is played by Alarna Cranston. Cranston embodies the bubbly personality of Glinda very well, with brilliant vocals. Almira Gulch/The Wicked Witch of the West is played by Seren James. James brings the wickedness to her portrayal, with a fantastic witch cackle.
Charlie Russell plays Zeke/Cowardly Lion. Russell nervous and scared lion to life with his characterisation, working well alongside the rest of the main four. Kajus Rackys plays Hickory/Tinman. Rackys is able to move robotically which worked perfectly for the tin man. His vocals were also sounded great during ‘If I Only Had a Heart’. George Dee plays Hunk/Scarecrow. Dee is able to bring the clumsy of the scarecrow to life. His vocal performance was sounded brilliant! Jessica Taylor plays Dorothy. Taylor lead the production with confidence, being the perfect Dorothy. Her vocals, especially during ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ were outstanding!
The Wizard of Oz continues to run until the 10th October. Book your tickets here!
Tickets for this production were provided complimentary. Many thanks to CATS and The Cresset for organising and we wish you a great week of shows!
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