By: Suzanne Cleave, TRP Reviewer
The timeless tale of the Wizard of Oz has captivated audiences for generations, and this new adaptation continues to delight, blending music, spectacle and storytelling to create an unforgettable theatre experience.
The stage comes alive with colours that evoke L. Frank Baum’s imagination. It takes you on a whirlwind journey – from the sepia toned Kansas farmland to the technicolour splendor of Munchkinland – all on the way to find Wizard of Oz – it’s a non-stop adventure!
We follow Dorothy Gale, the young girl who yearns to see the world outside Kansas. Her wish soon comes true when during a cyclone, she is transported to Munchkinland, a long way from her Aunt and Uncle in sleepy Kansas.
There she meets Glinda the Good Witch who tells her to visit Oz in the Emerald City. Along the way, she meets her trio of sidekicks – the Tin Man, the Lion, and the Scarecrow – and together they set of on a journey to find Oz.
But standing in their way is the Wicked Witch of the West. It’s a classic tale of good versus evil – can Dorothy and her trusted dog Toto make it home in one piece?
The Wizard of Oz is one of the most well-known stories of all time, with a soundtrack to match. This production hasn’t shifted far from the original story, but there are plenty of touches to bring it up to the modern day.
The staging was simple but bright and effective. The use of a massive digital backdrop was very clever, with changing images setting the scene.
At the heart of the production is a fantastic cast, led by Aviva Tulley who plays the role of Dorothy. She’s got a wide-eyed innocence and her voice is divine. Aviva makes Dorothy such a likeable character, you find yourself rooting for her all the way.
Some of the most comical scenes of the production come from the Tin Man, Scarecrow and Lion. Nic Greenshields is brilliant and endearing as the cowardly Lion. His reactions are guaranteed to raise a chuckle. Femi Akinfolarin is great as the Tin Man, with his robot moves, that, of course, become more fluid the more he is oiled! The Scarecrow completes the trio and Benjamin Yates plays him to perfection! They are all a joy to watch.
Not everyone can be nice, there’s always got to be a baddie and The Vivienne dazzles as the Wicked Witch, a green goddess who has huge stage presence. Her appearance in the Circle half way through drew gasps from the audience, who probably hoped she wouldn’t turn her broomstick in their direction!
Mention must also be made of Dorothy’s dog Toto, an incredibly lifelike puppet, who was operated by Abigail Matthews. From his wagging tale and other canine mannerisms, he really came alive.
The iconic songs are sure to put a spring in your step, such as ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow,’ ‘Follow the Yellow Brick Road’ and ‘Ding Dong the Witch is Dead’ – they are all there, along with some new, catchy tunes.
It’s a heartwarming tale, as Dorothy and her friends realise the things they are seeking lie inside them all along. All it takes is a bit of thought, a pinch of courage and a lot of heart.
A truly brilliant production that should not be missed!