The Wizard of Oz

Walnut Street Theatre, located at 825 Walnut Street, is presenting an adaptation of The Wizard of Oz that is nothing short of brilliant.  Based on L. Frank Baum’s book and the 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz can be seen on the Walnut’s mainstage through January 8^th.  Both children and adults alike will be captivated by this musical. Children, seeing the tale unfold for perhaps the first time will be mesmerized by its magic.  Adults, well familiar with the story-line, will be enthralled by this exceptional production.  Filled with foreshadowing, such as “Use your brains;” ”Be brave;” and “I feel like my heart has been torn out”, this piece has adults nodding knowingly and children sitting on the edge of their seats. Nothing can prepare you for the pure dulcet tones of Adrienne Eller as Dorothy starts to sing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The special effects created by the design, sound and lighting creative team are extraordinary; roaring, howling winds, dark clouds and puffs of smoke, flying bicycles, and  a twirling house all help create the illusion of a cyclone on stage as surely as it was created in film in 1939.  Christopher Shin, Christopher Sutton and Nichalas L. Parker, playing Tinman and Hickory, Scarecrow and Hunk and Cowardly Lion and Zeke respectively, sing and dance up a storm as they accompany Dorothy on her journey to the Emerald City.  Laugh lines are sprinkled throughout. When Dorothy asks Scarecrow how he can talk without a brain, he immediately replies, “Some people without brains do an awful lot of talking.” Ensemble members are also outstanding as they alternatively portray poppies, Jitterbugs and Winkies. The costumes are fantastic; the acting is marvelous; the old familiar music as well as a surprise new piece is delightful and the choreography is superb. There will be no performances on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year’s Day so be sure to make plans to see the show before your desired date gets sold out. For more information or tickets call 215-574-3550, 800-982-2787 or visit online at www.walnutstreettheatre.org or ticketmaster.