The Wizard of Oz hits all the right notes
When it came to finding a heart, a brain, some courage and a way home, Ashbury College put on a remarkable performance of L. Frank Baum’s classic, The Wizard of Oz.
When a young Kansas farm girl by the name of Dorothy gets sucked into a tornado and spit back out into the magical land of Oz, she needs help to find her way home again. Making new friends such as the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and the Scarecrow, she must find her way to the Wizard of Oz while keeping out of reach of the Wicked Witch of the West.
The Ashbury cast and crew put on an admirable performance, accompanied by a talented and well-rehearsed student orchestra.
Jane Amirault, as Dorothy, portrayed innocence with just a hint of cheek. Her singing was extraordinary, hitting every note with the tone of a well-rehearsed professional, and she did such classics as Over the Rainbow a great justice.
Amirault was well accompanied by the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the especially remarkable Cowardly Lion. Arunima Choudhury took on her role as King of the Forest with a powerful voice and humour that commanded attention.
In his many chorus roles, Mac-Lean Jones particularly stood out, especially in his role as a member of the trio of Oz trees, which he played with great humour and an undeniable sass.
The stage crew of Ashbury could have been more efficient at times, but what they lacked in efficiency they made up for in the aesthetics of their sets, especially their canvases. The use of multi-purpose pieces was smart and effective.
The makeup team did an incredible job, in particular on the Scarecrow and Wicked Witch, which were detailed and attractive even from afar. The costumes were also well done, and the slight differences in the Munchkin’s outfits were a nice touch.
Sound effects and microphone cues could have been better, but overall were very effective in the performance.
Lighting was smooth and the green spotlight was a great addition.
Ashbury College brought this classic to life onstage, with some extremely powerful actors, humorous lines, and beautiful renditions of timeless masterpieces.