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WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. -- If you grew up watching the much beloved 1939 MGM classic movie the "Wizard of Oz," you won't be disappointed in this production now on stage at the Westchester Broadway dinner theater through Sunday, Sept. 21.
Adapted by the Royal Shakespeare Company, this “Wizard” stays true to the movie version and in fact adds back much material cut from the original songs.
Adapting a movie to the stage is a difficult proposition at best. But no concerns here. This version, directed by Richard Stafford with musical direction by William Stanley, choreography by Jonathan Stahl and beautiful costumes by Tim McQuillen-Wright does an excellent job of faithfully capturing both the content as well as the spirit of the original motion picture. The leads are all strong actors and singers and though they clearly pay homage to the original movie actors. Devon Perry was a lovely Dorothy and had us right from the start with her beautiful rendition of “Over the Rainbow.” Her well-mannered Toto was a perfectly behaved companion thanks to the excellent training provided by William Berloni. Tim Dolan (Scarecrow), Chris Kind (Tinman) and Jayson Elliot (Cowardly Lion), all gave solid performances lending their substantial singing, dancing and comedic talents.
Broadway theater veteran Ken Jennings as Professor Marvel/Wizard of Oz was wonderfully animated and engagingly befuddled in his dual role. Aunt Em and Uncle Henry (Benjamin Dean and Nadine Zahr) were fine as Dorothy's doting but no-nonsense guardians. Glinda (Michelle Dawson) was appropriately saccharine-sweet and Miss Gulch/Wicked Witch (Nicole Tori), delightfully evil. Particularly appreciated, was the clever use of the small choruses that provided the choral depth and harmonic richness.
Call the box office at 914-592-2222 for tickets. For more information about this show and other WBT shows, visit www.broadwaytheatre.com.
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