Stand Up For…Theatre (SUF…T) is bringing its stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz to the DoodleHatch Interactive Art Museum in Columbia from June 9 to June 18. This timeless tale, in which Dorothy travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, is sure to delight kids of all ages who want to join in on the adventure and follow the yellow brick road to see the great Wizard of Oz! Adults can also appreciate the open, yet intimate feel of the production location with its beautiful physical set of art panel designs in the backdrop, a main stage area, and yellow brick road down the center isle from the stage leading to the wizard’s castle, all of which allow for an interactive and immersive experience.
The main cast costumes are what you might expect if you’ve seen the motion picture, but were all fabulous nonetheless, and credits go to Lee Anderson for fashion design, Cathy Prichard as seamstress, and costumer, Grant Myers, who is also the Producer. There were some creative liberties with the “tornado” and “apple trees” that are sure to be appreciated by all theater goers. The lighting was seamless and literally spot on for all scenes! As for music, audiences are in for a special treat with the live orchestra accompaniment for all the songs, and sound effects to boot! Music Director, Will Zellhofer, who also conducts and plays the piano, and the other musicians do not disappoint (Darwin Ray on reed, Wesley Freeman on trumpet, Bo Weaver on horn, Kevin James on bass, and Winfield Classing on percussion).
Samantha Rudai is sweet and loving as Dorothy, and she basically can do no wrong since we don’t find her at fault for taking out both the Wicked Witch of the East and West, hey, accidents happen. Kristen Cooley delivers a stellar performance as Miss Gulch and also The Wicked Witch of the West, her menacing high pitch laugh is perfect for the part of the wicked witch! Kristen Demers, who plays Hunk in Kansas and the Scarecrow in Oz, did a marvelous job overall. Scarecrow’s wobbly legs and many falls were so convincing and funny, kids in the audience laughed wholeheartedly every time.
One of the main dance numbers is the Wicked Witch’s jitterbug spell, which makes the entire cast do the jitterbug dance until they drop. The cast delivered on this number and a lot of credit goes to the choreographer, Lilou Altman, who also plays Aunt Em. While Aunt Em could’ve had a little more spunk and spark, Altman really shines doing the jitterbug number.
The rest of the main cast are all to be applauded for giving the performance their all, and includes Ed Higgins as Uncle Henry, Sal Wright as Hickory and also the Tin Man, Michael Zellhofer as Zeke and also the Cowardly Lion, Christopher Pence as Professor Marvel, and Marianne Sohn as Glinda. The munchkins are all just too cute and full of energy from beginning to end, even though it was likely well past their bedtime for the evening show.
The production runs approximately two hours, but keeps audiences engaged and entertained throughout. Audiences young and old will appreciate a scene borrowed from The Lion King, and Toto alone is sure to rouse some paws! Creative adaptation of the falling snow was just too adorable to describe, you’ll have to go see for yourself! Be sure to catch one of the remaining performances, so you don’t miss out on seeing the wonderful Wizard of Oz! You’ll also be supporting a worthy cause as the production company (How Do You Like Me Now (HDYLM) Productions, Inc.) uses theater and fine arts to promote ideals of acceptance and equality to bring awareness of hate and hate crimes against all races, genders, sexual identity and humanity as a whole.
Running Time: Approximately 2 hours with one intermission
The Wizard of Oz plays through June 18th 2023 with Stand Up For…Theatre at DoodleHATCH— 8775 Cloudleap Court in Columbia, MD. Tickets are available for purchase at the door or in advance online.
