Wizard of Oz

Who hasn't seen The Wizard of Oz? You've never seen the story told like it is currently being performed at the Omaha Community Playhouse. The excitement, surprises, and total enjoyment make this a “must see” event for everyone of all ages.
Why would anyone want to see The Wizard of Oz on stage since most people have seen the traditional movies so many times that they can almost recite the lines with the characters? The answer is simple. Who wouldn't want to see this new production at the Omaha Playhouse with some of the collaboratively creative costumes, special effects, and unique ways of retelling this traditional but well known story?
Charlotte Hedican, has a fresh approach utilizing her beautiful voice as Dorothy. Glinda, portrayed Dawn Buller-Kirke, proves that beauty does not have to be skinny or blond to be a glorious good witch with a dynamic voice. The Scarecrow who is St. Albert grad, Noah Diaz, shows the goofy side of the Scarecrow with a natural grace to his clumsiness on stage. Kevin Olsen as The Tin Woodsman has a voice the glides as he stiffly moves his character into having a heart. For the Cowardly Lion, Noel Larrieu, he really turns into the Lovable Lion winning the hearts of everyone. Sally Neumann Scamfer as the Wicked Witch of the West successfully became the horribly revengeful ogress in her pursuit of those ruby slippers.
What makes this production so outstanding are the non-traditional roles mixed with today's technology, a creative costume designer, and choreographer. The Three Crows are wonderful with their unusual costuming and movements along with the Three Trees which amazingly were sultry and sexy. Who could not love the Munchkins which their colorful costumes along with the Poppies and their choreography. The Citizens of Emerald City were gorgeous with their wigs and shades of green costuming that made each character unique. The technology in creating the tornado and the screen scenes are frightening while staying true to the story.
The Wizard of Oz will continue to play at the Omaha Community Playhouse through June 30th at 6915 Cass St. in Omaha. From Wednesdays through Saturdays with the shows begin at 7:30 p.m. and at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets costs are $ 40 for adults and $ 24 for students. For more information call (402) 553-0800 or omahaplayhouse.org. This is a long show with the first act running 80 minutes and 70 minutes for the second. Even with that, this production of The Wizard of Oz will amaze children and adults of all ages at The Omaha Community Playhouse.