The Wizard of Oz captured on stage again

The classic tale of "Wizard of Oz" is brought to life on stage with its beloved songs and loveable characters from America's youth. In this well-executed rendition, Dorothy's story is told line by line, nearly mirroring the films every move.

Despite the predictable plot, a few unexpected laughs were heard as the play took on some modern time characteristics. It was a decent attempt to break up the familiar storyline by adding extra entertainment. But it certainly was not needed as the play carried its weight with stunning set designs and brilliant stage performances.

Friday night kicked off opening night for the 3-D Theatricals production at Plummer Auditorium in Fullerton.  Director Shauna Markey vision for this play was masterfully constructed to capture the heart of Dorothy's adventure in the Land of Oz.

The play picks up when Dorothy (Melinda Koen) and Toto come home after running from Miss Gulch (Tamara Zook) whom Toto has bitten. A tornado strikes and Dorothy finds herself along with her house spinning out of control at the mercy of the storm. She awakens in a new land and learns her house has dropped on the Wicked Witch of the East. On her journey back to Kansas, Dorothy is joined by three friends. They face dangers from the Wicked Witch of the West as they venture to find the Great Wizard.

The energy was high as the curtain went up to reveal the rundown Kansas farm house as the characters took the stage.  But it wasn't until the set changed to Munchkinland did the intricate detail of the props shine. The set design was a master piece all in its own.

It's easy to forgive a few on stage technical malfunctions with a production this difficult, especially when the actors got all the key elements right.  

The performance from Zook as the Wicked Witch could be compared to that of the original. That is until her evil spell of the Jitter Bug dance was cast upon Dorothy and her friends. It's unclear why this particular scene was added to the storyline, but it's safe to say it should have been left out.

Koen won us over with her charm and innocence.  Tin man (Ryan Ruge) was a delight to watch and Lion (CJ Porter) kept the audience laughing. But it was the Scarecrow (Graham Kurtz) who stole the lime light as Dorothy's friend with his clumsy antics and lovable personality.  

This remake of the "Wizard of Oz" is a fun way for families to experience the film and relive a childhood classic.