Review: 'The Wizard of Oz' at Madeira School

by Hannah Grudi of Chantilly High School

We’re off to see the Wizard! A pop of color makes Oz, the yellow brick road, the Emerald City, and those famous ruby slippers so vivid for Dorothy and her friends. The Madeira School production of The Wizard of Oz brought their own unique color to the show this weekend, while still keeping its original hue.

The Wizard of Oz is a classic, written by L. Frank Baum in 1900 and adapted into an iconic film in 1939. This is the second theatrical adaptation, and this musical dreamland brings to mind a children’s coloring book as Dorothy Gale ventures into the Land of Oz in hopes of simply finding her way home to her beloved Kansas family.

Dorothy (Erica Glaser) kept a child-like innocence and kindness throughout the show, and made you fall in love with the little Kansas native. Her singing was strong and steady, and her character voice evoked Dorothy's caring bordering on naiveté

There was also a strong supporting cast, with the Scarecrow (Gabrielle Bullard) leading the gang. Her performance kept you giggling throughout her scenes. She delightfully conveyed the Scarecrow’s bonelessness, even when dancing. Her footwork was always on point, particularly her tap dancing showcase during “The Merry Old Land of Oz”. The Tin Man (Anna Merod) had amiable vocal conviction as well, and the Lion (Anna Bradley) had commendable comedic timing, with her jokes hitting right on. The ensembles were equally strong, with the Ozzians creating a magnificent stage picture decked in green, and the Munchkins conveying childlike silliness. Also fantastic, were the crows, with clever, sharp mannerisms that made it easy to see believe that they were birds.

The lights and sound brought out the show's high points, illuminating the detailed and complex scenery and of course, the skillful actresses. There were occasionally some microphone issues, but the set changes ran smoothly and quickly to make up for it. The costumes also brought across the vibrant attitude of the show, and the makeup was phenomenal, with curious and new colors for each character. In this production, many actresses filled multiple roles and thus had to have several makeup changes throughout the show. Another aspect of the show that really brought out the fantastical aspects of the show was the use of puppetry to play roles. The puppet skills were spot on, from the tumbleweed as the tornado began, to the believability of Toto the dog, puppeteered by Claire Gillman.

As we wave goodbye to the yellow brick road and the Emerald City, the colorful talents of The Madeira School’s The Wizard of Oz made everyone feel a little bittersweet when Dorothy awoke from from her dream. She was home safe and sound, but we were sorry to see the bright and beautiful Land of Oz go.

This review is part of the CAPPIES program for high school students.