The Wizard of Oz - Show Program
From the Director’s Chair
There are so many feelings that go into building a show from everyone involved – the excitement and nervousness at the beginning, the tiredness and determination of the downs and ups of the middle, and… the excitement and nervousness of the end, mixed in with a lot of happiness and a tinge of sadness. It is quite amazing though, that regardless of the journey, a lot of feelings from the onset of the production are mirrored at the conclusion, just a bit more mature. Like any journey, eventually we find our way home, and we all know that there’s no place like home.
The Wizard of Oz is a beloved masterpiece that has stood the test of time. After L. Frank Baum penned the original novel in 1900, the novel has been adapted across many different media, including television, radio, and a “little-known” film from 1939. This musical production is a faithful adaptation of the MGM classic film and we hope that our interpretation continues to uphold the classic storytelling of L. Frank Baum. His vision is that of a new fairy tale for a new generation, breaking away from the classic stories of childhood.
Different from the Brothers Grimm and other classic fairy tale authors, Baum took the time to build a new world somewhere over the rainbow in which witches and talking animals existed alongside a few new twists and turns for an American audience. Thankfully, the story caught on and spread around the world faster than a haystack in a cyclone. One of the most influential changes in the narrative of Oz is simple: a small but plucky Kansas farm girl who doesn’t sit idly by, waiting for a prince to come and save her. She packs up a basket and sets off with her dog to find her way back home, adventuring into the unknown like any good protagonist.
Throughout our rehearsals and production, we have discovered several lessons that continue to instruct children of all ages:
- When in doubt, invest in a good pair of shoes. No one knows how long the journey will be or when the wind will knock you off of your feet.
- It’s always nice to travel with someone, as you might be lacking something that the other person (or animal) has.
- Don’t give in to the wicked witches in your life and have a bucket of water handy, just in case.
- Have some faith in yourself, because not everyone can or will do everything promised, but you just might surprise yourself.
Last but not least, to quote the Wizard of Oz: “A heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others.” Lean on your friends and loved ones because they are who truly matter.
On behalf of the storytellers who have worked tirelessly over the past number of months to share this tale with you,thank you, and enjoy the show.
Braden Dalton, director
