Review: THE WIZARD OF OZ at Hale Centre Theatre
The production runs through June 27th at Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert, AZ.
THE WIZARD OF OZ is a timeless story about the importance of friendship and the strengths that every person holds within. This version of the story follows the original 1939 film closely, using the film’s classic songs with music and lyrics from Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. Hale Centre Theatre’s production of the musical is fun for the whole family.
The musical follows Dorothy Gale (Gracie Gamble), a young farmgirl from Kansas living with her Aunt Em (Ivana Martinic) and Uncle Henry (Raymond Barcelo). After her mean neighbor, Miss Almira Gulch (Alice Johnson), tries to take her dog, Toto (puppeteer: Benicio Bermudez), Dorothy runs away but finds herself trapped in a Tornado. After returning home, she’s carried away by the twister only to step outside and realize she’s far from home. In the Land of Oz, she meets Glinda (Ivana Martinic), who informs her she’s killed the Wicked Witch of the East and gives her the witch’s Ruby Slippers to protect her from the Wicked Witch of the West (Alice Johnson). With the witch pursuing Dorothy, Glinda sends Dorothy down the yellow brick road on a journey to find the Wizard of Oz to send her home. Along the way, she meets the Scarecrow (Joshua South), the Tinman (William Buhler), and the Cowardly Lion (Trevon Powell). Together, the four make the journey to the Emerald City.
Although the musical primarily follows the film, there are some changes. This adaptation is perfect for fans of L. Frank Baum’s books or the history behind the film. There is more Wizard of Oz content that was not included in the original film. It includes a song cut from the original film: "Jitterbug.” Additionally, this adaptation tells the backstory of the Tinman from the book. The musical keeps the classic setting of the 1930s, but there are occasionally newer jokes clearly written for a modern audience. These jokes and inclusions help keep the musical fresh and unique, but still faithful to the film.
The musical is lively and fun, aided by choreography and direction from Cambrian James. Throughout the musical, there are numerous great dance numbers. These high-energy moments, full of talented performers, were very entertaining in Hale Centre Theatre’s in-the-round stage. With the addition of the costumes, designed by Brielle Hawkes, the dancing helps bring audiences into the world of Oz. There was clear thought put into the movements of certain characters as well. Joshua South’s performance of the scarecrow had an impressive physicality; he nailed the uncontrolled-looking movements that a being made of straw should have. Bennett Allen Wood as Nikko, the flying monkey, was also impressive. His brief appearance was attention-grabbing and a fun, fantastical take on primate movements.
There were numerous Great Performances. Gracie Gamble’s performance as Dorothy did a nice job of capturing both Dorothy’s childlike wonder and determination and her fear and longing for home. It’s easy to get swept up into the fun world of Oz, but her performance grounds the story and centers the message of the importance of family and the people that make somewhere home. Her rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” was touching. Another great performance was from Trevon Powell. His performance as the Cowardly Lion was very funny; his comedic timing was great, and his vocals were very strong. Alice Johnson’s portrayal of both Miss Gulch and the Wicked Witch was very fun. Her over-the-top performance was perfectly suited to the character.
Nearly 90 years after the film premiered and over 120 years since the novel was published, this great American fairytale is a story to love. This rendition of the musical is great for people both young and old. There’s no place to see THE WIZARD OF OZ like Hale Centre Theatre.
THE WIZARD OF OZ plays at Hale Centre Theatre through June 27h.
Hale Centre Theatre -- https://www.haletheatrearizona.com/Online/default.asp-- 480-497-1181 Venue: Hale Centre Theatre -- 50 West Page Avenue, Gilbert, AZ 85233
Photo Credit to Nick Woodward-Shaw: Left to right: Benicio Bermudez, Gracie Gamble, Joshua South, Trevon Powell, William Buhler
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