Reviews
The Waukesha Freeman
By Julie McHale
On a lighter side, the Theatre on Main in Oconomowoc has launched an ambitious production of the “Wizard of Oz,” gathering a cast of over fifty, an orchestra of seven, and an army of backstage helpers to re-create the classic tale. With clever staging, creative costuming, some wonderful voices, and credible acting, the show keeps us intrigued for several hours. Considering all the scene changes, the transitions are accomplished smoothly by using the apron and floor space in front of the stage as sets are changed behind the curtain. A large television screen is also used to depict the tornado and the fearsome OZ.
All the costumes are well designed, but the Munchkins’ colorful array deserves special mention as do the outfits of the Winkies and the Poppies (a small army worked on costumes). The dances in Emerald City and the jitterbug scene are also well executed, thanks to the talented choreographer Shawn Dauer.
We all know the story, probably from the beloved movie version with Judy Garland, but the play contains some scenes and some songs that the movie omits. It’s fun to note the differences and also to appreciate how much work is involved in bringing an amateur cast to this level of performance. Director James Skiba deserves many gold stars for this achievement.
Standouts in the remarkable ensemble include Emily Gaulke as Dorothy (we just marveled at her in her role as Queen Guinevere in “Camelot”), Tom Koth as the Cowardly Lion, Trevor Rees as the Scarecrow (extremely adept at falling and staying in character every second), and Rebecca Richards as the very wicked Wicked Witch of the West (great cackle).
This spectacular show runs for two more weekends. Contact 262-560-0564 for times and tickets.
Thursday, July 22, 2010 Edition
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