It brims with creativity, talent, and technical magic...
Upon stepping into the foyer of Nottingham's Theatre Royal, I was met with a surprising revelation. Among the crowd eagerly awaiting the curtain to rise, I encountered not just one, but two individuals who had yet to witness the enchantment of The Wizard of Oz.
Bizarre to believe the classic film, now a staggering 75 years old, yet thankfully remains a cornerstone of cinematic history, offering a tale of adventure, friendship, and the timeless quest for home.
For those that haven’t seen it, The Wizard of Oz tells the captivating story of Dorothy Gale, a young girl whisked away by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the magical realm of Oz.
Upon her arrival, Dorothy's house accidentally lands on and kills the Wicked Witch of the East, freeing the Munchkins from the witch's tyranny. To return home, Dorothy must follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City to ask The Wizard of Oz for help. Along the way, she befriends a Scarecrow seeking brains, a Tin man longing for a heart, and a Cowardly Lion in search of courage. Ultimately, it's a tale that beautifully weaves lessons of courage, friendship, and the discovery that sometimes, what we seek the most has been within us all along.
Under the visionary direction of Nikolai Foster, the production reimagines L. Frank Baum's beloved tale for the modern age without forfeiting its heart. It brims with creativity, talent, and technical magic, promising an enchanting experience for audiences of all ages.
From the innovative set designs by Colin Richmond that transition audiences from a dusty Kansas farm to the vibrant Land of Oz, to the masterful stage effects and use of multimedia that bring the tornado to life, this production is far from a mere revival. It's a fresh, yet faithful celebration of a story that continues to resonate deeply with audiences.
The casting is another high point. While The Vivienne as The Wicked Witch of the West is the billed lead (and amazing she is too) The whole cast are super talented.
Aviva Tulley plays our heroine Dorothy, bringing a refreshing mix of innocence and resolve to the role, capturing the heart of the character in a way that feels both true to the original and relevant to today's audiences.
Special mention also to Benjamin Yates as Scarecrow. The chemistry among Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion is faultless, infusing their journey with warmth and humour.
The Vivienne's Wicked Witch of the West strikes the perfect balance between menace and sass, providing a delightful antagonism that drives the narrative forward.
Meanwhile, the ensemble cast, embodying everything from Munchkins to flying monkeys, add layers of colour and movement to the production, ensuring that there's never a dull moment.
Musically, the show is a triumph. The beloved songs from the 1939 film are performed with gusto, alongside new compositions from Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber which mostly fit seamlessly into the story.
These new numbers echo the themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery, enriching the narrative of the original movie and offering fresh moments of engagement.
The orchestration and choreography elevates the score, creating pieces that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
However, what sets this production apart is its ability to speak to new audiences while staying true to the essence of "The Wizard of Oz." we know and love.
Themes of home, identity, and the power of community resonate strongly in today's world, and the show subtly highlights these without feeling heavy-handed.
The use of modern technology enhances the storytelling without overshadowing it, striking a balance that is both innovative and respectful of the original. The creative team and cast have managed to produce a show that is familiar yet fresh, filled with moments of joy, wonder, and reflection.
For those who have grown up with the story, it is a delightful journey down memory lane; for newcomers, it is an invitation to experience the magic of Oz for the first time.
The Wizard of Oz plays at Nottingham's Theatre Royal until Saturday 13 April 2024.
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