There is something magical about The Wizard of Oz. The music is so iconic and the characters feel so real. That magic is ever present in Alberta Theatre Projects’ production of The Wizard of Oz, in association with Forte Musical Theatre. This large production features a whole array of cast members and creative team. But it makes for a riveting experience, one that my little human was enthralled with. The music, along with the talented cast makes this production a formative night at the theatre.
This production features the original story portrayed in the movie, with the added jitterbug song. Expect to hear all of the musical numbers and try not to sing along. Hannah Adamson as Dorothy is spectacular. She’s got the sweetest voice and is also just as sweet with the friends she makes along the way. In particular, Ryan Maschke as the Scarecrow is a wonder. His dancing is so precise and he effortlessly looks like he is made of straw. The introduction of a rusted Tinman (Jason Lemmon) is a moment that shines. Lemmon transforms into the Tinman – you truly believe that he is stiff without his oil can. Kevin Corey returns to his role as the Cowardly Lion, a role he played back on the Martha Cohen stage in 2011. Corey’s Lion is shy and strong all at the same time. Brent Gill is both Uncle Henry and the Emerald City Guard, while Jessica Jones is Aunty Em and Glinda. It’s lovely to see Jones on this stage, her voice is a force in the production. Daniela Vlaskalic takes on the roles of Miss Almira Gulch and the Wicked Witch of the West, and is stern and menacing without being terrifying. The role of the Wizard of Oz is taken up by none other than Christopher Hunt and he is quite fitting for the role, bringing a touch of quirkiness and mystery. Along with an ensemble cast and a youth ensemble, this is a good mix for a family show. The only critique of the musical is that the youth singers were a little off key.
My little person’s favourite character on stage was Toto, played by Duncan the dog.
Director Tracey Power keeps a tight production, no small feat with such a large cast. She even has Vlaskalic on a bicycle, moving around the stage as Gulch. Narda McCarroll’s set and prop designs are inventive and imaginative, with jeans all glued together as the ‘forest’ that the group goes through and bicycle wheels and spokes in the Wicked Witch’s den. Ralamy Kneeshaw’s costume design is brilliant, especially for the minimal costumes that the crows wear when we first meet Scarecrow. Joe Slabe and Van Wilmott on keyboards on stage is a nice touch, which keeps all the music contained.
With memorable music and a story that is magical and fascinating, this production is a powerful night at the theatre for the whole family, but especially for the children who haven’t been down the yellow brick road before. When asked, my little person’s insight of the play was: the Wizard of Oz is a man behind a curtain. It might be a good thing to think about, checking behind the curtains of authority, every once in a while.
Alberta Theatre Projects in association with Forte Musical Theatre’s production of The Wizard of Oz runs until January 4th. More information is available online.