By Marikita Saure
The Wizard of Oz, Nebraska Communities Playhouse, Final Dress Rehearsal Thursday September 5, 2024
Soar over the rainbow with a delightful portrayal of the classic story of The Wizard of Oz!
The Nebraska Communities Playhouse strikes again with this wonderful and well known story, soaring over the rainbow and into the land of Oz with characters we all love and know well. Led fearlessly by director JD Madsen, the cast, crew, and production team have really landed a pot of gold with this classic story that is truly a story for everyone, young and old. Madsen’s wish is for this story to pull on the powerful feeling of nostalgia and honor the classic work, while also keeping the story fresh and unique for all audiences. With amazing detail and execution from all involved, this production does just that, while adding magic of its own.
You will certainly find yourself smiling from beginning to end, as I did watching the show. Walking into the theater, you’ll be greeted with the beautiful set, utilizing projections to welcome the audience which continue throughout the show. The projections continue to compliment the events of the story with beautiful artwork and special effects as you travel down the yellow brick road with the talented cast. The costumes are beautifully done by Kathryn Cover, dressing the ensemble in beautiful, natural, and neutral sepia tones, giving the appearance of an old film and enhancing the feeling of being on the family farm, while later bursting in color that emphasizes all characters. Lighting design by Lili Rowan and Makeup Design by Ashley Hothan and Callise Mah bring out the detail and marvel that the show demands.
It can be challenging appealing to an audience for a story they already are familiar with, but this production will surely have you diving head first into the journey, following Dorothy Gale, played by the innocent, heart warming, and doe eyed Lillian Johnson. Johnson is certainly a stand out, having a vintage quality to her voice already, while also complimenting the character and Judy Garland’s legacy. You will easily fall in love with her sidekick best friend, Toto – later played by Connor Dudley. Dudley absolutely nails the role with enthusiasm and making moments of his own that will repeatedly draw you into his performance.
The stage was absolutely electric with each entrance of the friends Dorothy makes along her adventure to Oz; the Scarecrow played by Noah Trumble, Tin Man played by Matt Osmotherly, and Lion played by Christian Cardona. The production really picks up in energy with each introduction; featuring each actor and their strengths as performers. Trumble has an undeniable stage presence and precision in his portrayal of Scarecrow, really showing off his acting chops and physicality he brings to the character, especially during “If I Only had a Brain”. Osmotherly is no exception in his role as Tin Man, though famously known to be on the quest of getting his own heart, easily pulls on your heart strings throughout the show. Osmotherly is backed with some members of the ensemble for an endearing tap number that shows off his jaw dropping dancing for his song, “If I Only Had a Heart”. And last but certainly not least, Cardona absolutely nails the role and comedic timing of Lion, mimicking exactly the sobs, laughter, and charm that you’ll recognize from the movie while making the character entirely his own. Those who have attended previous NCP productions will recognize Cardona’s incredible vocal talent. A few absolute favorite moments of mine in the production were his hilarious performances of both “If I Only had the Nerve” and “If I were the King of the Forest”.
Additional standout performances include those of Collette Williams and Chloe Schwarting, who play the Wicked Witch of the West and East respectively. Williams is, as John Travolta would say, “wickedly talented” and will absolutely awe with her vocal abilities in her character voices for both Almira Gultch and Wicked Witch of the West. Williams zeros in on exact gestures and posturing that you will easily recognize from Margaret Hamilton’s portrayal of the role in the film. Schwarting literally sparkles onstage, not only drawing you in with her warmth as Aunt Em, but also her dazzling portrayal of Glinda. Her beautiful and angelic voice tributes so well to the grace and nature of her character. One cannot forget Sam Ninegar’s captivating and cunning performance as Professor Marvel and the Great and Powerful Oz himself. He plays his cards expertly in the role, completely engulfing how you would imagine his character to be.
The ensemble is the icing on the emerald cake of this production. Under the music direction of Justin Eisenbeis, the sound of the show and ensemble absolutely twinkles and enriches the atmosphere of each scene. The ensemble does a great job contributing to the sense of community, seeming well in tune with one another and often complimenting each other. The choreography and movement is well placed by Hannah Bertrand – Choreographer, who makes the already darling atmosphere even more so. Though you’ll find yourself noticing little easter egg details that members of the ensemble add into each scene, you’ll really enjoy the partnership between Callise Mah and Ian Mitchell as Ozian guards. As an actor myself, I know how challenging it can be to be perfectly in time with another person, and Mah and Mitchell compliment each other well. The entire cast shines and impresses, especially during “Merry Old Land of Oz” and “Jitterbug”.
I highly recommend attending Nebraska Communities Playhouse production that will definitely have you smiling ear to ear. Make sure to stop by the bar/concessions during intermission to check out the themed drinks and treats the theater assembled for audiences to enjoy. Be prepared for a handful of belly laughs, and expect to walk away from the theater with a greater appreciation for whatever your “home” might be—with the knowledge that what’s over the rainbow maybe isn’t that far out of reach.
If you go: (and you should!): Nebraska Communities Playhouse 217 Locust St, Hickman NE 68372. September 6-8th, 12th-15th at 7:30pm, 2pm Sunday matinees. Tickets can be purchased online at neplayhouse.com or by calling the box office at (402)792- 8882.
Marikita Saure is a passionate supporter and participant of the performing arts, appearing as an actress, artist, and director for shows in Lincoln and the surrounding areas. She is a big animal lover and has two dogs (Saint Bernard and Terrier mix) whom she loves dearly.
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