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News & Reviews Wizard of Oz Review
10th January


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Wizard of Oz Review

Just like the film, eh? Dunno, never seen it. Nor the stage show. In fact, I didn't even know the story. My only acquaintance with the Wizard of Oz is through the Nomads' January production. And d'you know what? I don't have any desire to see the film. That bad was it? No, it was that good. Roger Stevens, with the excellent support of choreographer Claire Evans and Musical Director Andy Brown, returned to the Nomads to direct a show that was a technical and artistic tour de force. "Oz" succeeded on just about every level: the costumes and make-up were superb, the pre-recorded music nicely arranged, the dancing and singing out of the top drawer, the sets finely constructed. You get the picture.

Three aspects of the Wizard of Oz struck me in particular. Firstly, the weaving into such a cohesive and tight production the many complex and diverse artistic and technical elements. The scope for mediocrity was considerable and the avoidance of this is a tremendous testimony to the talents of cast and crew and the obvious team effort that must have been exerted.

Secondly, among a cast that was collectively excellent, special mention must be made of the principal characters. Colin Clyde's Tin Man and Don Brown's Lion were both finely judged performances that mixed pathos and comedy to great effect. Antonia De Roche's Dorothy was utterly delightful, conveying the excitement, fear and wonderment of the young girl's adventure with great sensitivity (and no little skill in dog handling!). Tristan Carter was quite simply brilliant as the brainless gyrating scarecrow displaying considerable dexterity and timing in bringing this character alive. Lisa Arnold's Witch of the West readily conjured the opprobrium that ensured she would never have the audience's sympathy and provided us with the magnificent "melting" scene.

Thirdly, this was a considerable technical achievement of light and sound, revolving stage and trap door, smoke and flying sets, and an impressive video projection of the wizard, all stage-managed to seamless effect. The technical crew deserves the highest praise for their achievements.

So now I know the story. Thank you, Nomads, for the education. It was a real pleasure.





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