Opera House adapts ‘Wizard of Oz’ for streaming
The virtual play will be streamed in early March
The Woodland Opera House has announced a completely remote adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz.”
“The Wizard of Oz — a New Modern Play” is a Young Adult Performer’s Series production adapted for the stage by Jon Jory from the book written by L. Frank Baum. It is underwritten by Music to Grow On Music Therapy Services, Inc.
Rehearsals and recordings were all done over Zoom, and directed by Cheryl Watson.
“We wanted to provide an outlet for our skilled teen acting students who are eager to continue performing. To rehearse safely, Cheryl devised an efficient rehearsal system on Zoom and spent countless hours creating delightful virtual backdrops to transform each cast member’s living room “over the rainbow”, stated Executive Director of the Woodland Opera House, Angela Baltezore. “We wanted to provide a complete performance experience for the cast and audience including creative, colorful costumes designed by Denise Miles.”
This adaption, similar to the original story follows Dorothy (Mia Fisher) as she lands in Oz and must find her way home to Kansas. However, she must first find the yellow brick road, make it through the poppy field, avoid the flying monkeys and defeat the Wicked Witch (Frances Thayer), according to Baltezore.
The play features familiar characters, such as Scarecrow (Kate Kasten), Tin Man (Zoe Rosendale), Cowardly Lion (Brady Stephens) and Glinda the Good Witch (Amelia Robinson Burmester).
“There are some surprises along the way in this faithful adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s classic story,” a statement from the opera house explained.
The show will be streamed on March 6 and March 7 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on the streaming service ShowTix4U. Tickets are available through the Woodland Opera House at www.woodlandoperahouse.org at $10 per device or $20 for a group package.