KCRep’s The Wizard of Oz is the classic that keeps on giving
Wizard of Oz. // Photo by Don Ipock
TeenTix KC is an organization that helps provide KC youth with access to live stage performances. As part of that work, some up-and-coming ‘Press Corps Members’ are tackling their first reviews—building up a next generation of critical, celebratory voices. Today, we’re thrilled to share Brighton Brame’s take on KCRep’s The Wizard of Oz. Find out more about TeenTix here.
The Wizard of Oz has been adapted so many times; most of these adaptations are wildly successful. This show, presented by the KC Repertory Theatre, is another excellent remake. Their fantastic performance runs through May 24th. This play did what all plays aspire to do and made me feel like I was watching a movie. The singing and all the different talents are what made it feel so cinematic.
One of the most unique parts of this show was the sheer amount of puppetry that it took to portray all the otherworldly animals that fill Oz. Zachary Garner did a wonderful job with Toto. I would also like to mention the jitterbugs as the wearable puppet aspect with the backpack-type structures was really quite astonishing, as well as the flying monkeys’ creepy design. The puppets flying through the air with the grotesquely human faces was one of the spookiest portrayals of these Ozian creatures I have seen.
The set was incredible. A revolving stage really adds another level to any production and all the elements were executed perfectly. One of the coolest parts of any Wizard of Oz production is the twister and this was no different. The projections on the hanging strings really gave such an immersive feeling to the scene. The set was both simple enough not to be crowded but unique enough to give each scene a different feeling.
Amari Lewis did a wonderful job as Dorothy. Her powerful voice rang out through the whole theater. Lewis really took the role, ran with it and made it her own. Her take on Dorothy’s frightened but determined character was excellent. She was very entertaining and really held the audience’s attention.
One of the most unique parts of this show was the fact that the band and the ensemble were the same thing. We got to see apple trees that ended up playing banjo or the Wizard (Dan Weschlener) conducting. This was such a unique way to include the whole ensemble in every moment of the show without crowding the stage. The amount of skill that it takes just to sing and dance in a show must have been multiplied by ten for these actors.
All the actors did so well that I would have to write out the whole cast list just to credit them on how well-executed this show was. From the apple trees to the Scarecrow, every role was cast perfectly. I would like to especially mention the youth cast, as they did a wonderful job portraying the Munchkins.
This show was fantastic and I loved every second. This new take on the 126-year-old story keeps the traditional storyline while still making it feel fresh and entertaining. The amazing actors and beautiful props will keep you hooked until the last minute.
