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The Wizard of Oz

carli lewis's picture
Submitted by carli lewis on Sunday, 10th Jun 2012
TP Rating: 
4
Date of Show: 
Friday, 8th June 2012 (All day)
Venue: 
The Arts Theatre

Therry's production of the Wizard of Oz is an absolute delight. It’s a lavish, colourful reproduction of the famous 1939 movie with a fantastic cast, supported by a real live puppy as Toto.


Leah Potter’s strong, sweet voice makes her a perfect Dorothy, and her companions The Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and the Scarecrow are perfectly cast. Of special mention is Lee Cook’s fantastic physicality as the Tin Man.  Emily Schwab’s Glinda is a perfect match for Shona Benson’s evil green Wicked Witch of the West and Professor Marvel / The Wizard of Oz is played by the amazing Norm Caddick; a true thespian with a rich history which shows in his characterisations. The Munchkins are played by a troupe of singing, dancing youths and their musical numbers are a load of fun.


The only problem with this funny, endearing production is that it goes on for too long, finishing at the two and a half hour mark. I’m not sure why amateur productions seem to experience this problem so often. A faster pace and a little editing would have created a better setting for this lovely gem.

State: 
SA

About the Author

After studying under John Bolton in Williamstown, Vic, I've mostly dabbled in theatre as a hobby. Highlights include two shows created with the assistance of La Mama Theatre in Carlton, creating my own theatre show, An Awkward Seduction, for Adelaide Fringe 2010, and performing at the inaugural Dr Sketchy's, Adelaide.