Eastfield’s theater production was proud to present “The Great and Terrible Wizard of Oz.” Unlike other adaptations viewers have seen and loved, this version became a journey, not only as the four favorite characters travel the yellow brick road to meet the wizard, but Dorothy’s journey of self discovery and grief. The ensemble had big roles to fill, as they played the munchkins, the poppies, monkeys, wolves and so much more.
The show begins with the main protagonist, Dorothy, played by Elise Stuart, being interviewed by three representatives of her school. Meanwhile, the Kansas weather was showing signs for a tornado. The iconic tornado scene occurs as cast members cross the stage quickly holding items that represent each scene of the play.
As Dorothy wakes up in Munchkin Land, all its inhabitants celebrate as her house has crushed the Wicked Witch of the East. Although her death is not shown, Glinda, played by Ava Quinn, throws water over a ledge on the stage causing smoke to rise from behind, indicating the witch melting away. The decay of the Witch’s body leaves Dorothy in shock, disgusted and confused all at once. The audience then meets the other characters of the show. Sophia Garcia gave an incredible depiction of the scared scarecrow, Jack Strahm was heartless as the Tin Woodsman and Jesse Rodriguez played the cowardly lion, who brought the beloved character to life.
Parts of the play were exclusive to Eastfield’s rendition, such as the presence of a four-legged monster with a mask over his head, and the failed plan of the Wizard of Oz and the Wicked Witch of the West.
The tragic ending of Dorothy’s dog Toto, played beautifully by Judah, was the most heartbreaking scene of the play. Everyone in the audience was in shock, and many people couldn’t believe what had just happened. The audience didn’t expect the Wizard and Witch to be ‘frienemies,’ and that surprise set up the satisfaction of the eventual defeat of both characters.
Although the main four characters were on the same journey, each one was going through their own personal journey. Dorothy was discovering her purpose in life and grieving over her parents’ death, made more difficult after witnessing Toto’s death. Tin Woodsman was trying to recover from the loss of his love, caused by the Wicked Witch of the East. The Scarecrow evolved during the show and was constantly learning — without a brain — to discover the identity of the Wizard. Lastly, the Cowardly Lion, who at his introduction, was afraid of everything, earned courage in order to avenge Toto and protect Dorothy against the Wicked Witch of the West.
The crew behind “The Great and Terrible Wizard of OZ” did an amazing job with the sets, lighting and costumes.
The play had everything from comedy to heartbreak to pride. It showed that a group of strangers can make a strong bond with one another and accomplish even the toughest of challenges with the power of friendship and strength.
