We had amazing seats! I dare say the best in the house 🙂
I love live theatre and once dreamt of becoming a performer. My dream roll was to play Eponine in “Les Miserable” and I could sing that entire show from beginning to end. I thought I was pretty good, but I suffered from massive stage fright, LOL. Cie la vie 🙁 Today I was treated to a matinee showing of “The Wizard of Oz“, an Andrew Lloyd Webber production. The musical is currently playing at the Ed Mirvish Theatre in Toronto and will be there until the middle of August 2013. Do I think you should go? Yup, indeedy I do. 🙂
The entire production was adapted from the well loved movie of years gone by, with very few changes. The jokes are updated and there are some new songs from Tim Rice and Sir Webber. While change can be good, it is not always necessary and this show is a perfect example. By sticking with the standard story line the show has a comfortable feeling right off the bat. There is no need to read the synopsis in the program because we all know Dorothy’s story. I like that. I like that a classic has not been toyed with and changed up. Last year we saw “Mary Poppins” on stage. This movie is a family favorite around here, but the show was a bit of a disappointment for me. There were tons of changes! Thankfully you do not have that worry with “The Wizard of Oz.”
Danielle Wade and “Toto”
(Photo courtesy of CBC)
One of the unique features of this particular production is the way in which it’s star was procured. The role of Dorothy is played by Danielle Wade, an up and coming Canadian stage actress/singer who made her professional debut in The Wizard. Danielle was chosen by the Canadian viewers of the talent search show, “Over the Rainbow“, hosted on CBC in 2012. How cool is that?! Danielle does not disappoint. I was taken with her youthful charm right from the start and often found myself wondering who she reminded me of. I am still not sure, but I am thinking of a young Judy Garland maybe? You be the judge, but either way you will be impressed by Danielle Wade. Apparently Danielle’s greatest fear was about preforming the iconic “Over the Rainbow“, but the lump in my throat says she nailed it! Danielle is a young woman with a very promising career on stage.
Most of the cast in the Emerald City
(photo courtesy of BroadwayWorld.com)
The entire cast was comprised of experienced performers and rookies alike, but they all worked well together. The music was as upbeat and catchy as the original movie ( you know your humming “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” right now 🙂 ) and the characters still charmingly familiar. I really loved the costumes! While the main characters still maintained their signature duds, license was taken a bit, with others, like the munchkins. But it worked! The Lollipop Guild never looked so good. 🙂 There was just the right amount of choreography. The dance numbers induced some toe tapping and wonderful effects. I would definitely go see “The Wizard of Oz” again.
I can’t forget the little furry friend that stole the show. Toto of course, Dorothy’s little pal who is constantly getting her in trouble is played by siblings in this production, with the lead going to Tilley, a Norfolk Terrier from London, Ontario. 🙂 Tilley’s little brother, Neddy and Winnie play her understudies. So cute! Tilley was found in a similar fashion as Dorothy was with the Canadian viewers picking her as the winner. You can read a little more about Tilley in this The Star.com article.
The three Toto’s 🙂
(photo courtesy of TheStar.com)
Now I am not a movie, book, theatre, food or entertainment critic at all. Well, I don’t get paid for my opinion, but just like hearts, everyone has one. Sorry Tin Man 🙁 In my opinion I think you should check out the Toronto production of “The Wizard of Oz“. It was highly entertaining and upbeat. You will love it!
What is your favorite live theatre production? I would love to hear all about it. Thanks for stopping by. ♥ ♥
FT&PD
Suz
Why did your write-up bring a tear to my eye?? “The Wizard of Oz” was the first movie that my parents allowed me to see….actually the second…..but a horse died in the first movie I saw, and I tend to conveniently forget it! 🙂 I had wondered if this stage production would appeal to adults as well as the younger folks, and your ‘review’ answered that question. Thanks, Suzanne, a very enjoyable read.
We are cut from the same cloth Gemma, emotions run high!! What a cute story about how you recall seeing The Wizard when young 🙂 I wasn’t sure what to expect when I saw the show, but I was pleasantly surprised. Even my husband Doug enjoyed it! You should go!
Suz
The Wizard of Oz is one of my favourite movies of all time! We were fortunate enough to see the UK version of this musical at the London Palladium and it was amazing. Glad to hear that you enjoyed it too.
Sam
Thank you Sam! This one was fantastic and it was cool to have this young Canadian actress be chosen by the public to be Dorothy. Made it a bit more special to see her live. She did not disappoint 🙂 Next up for Toronto is Les Miz, which is my favorite ( I have seen it four times 🙂 ), but they have apparently changed it up so I am not sure I want to see it. Aladdin is also making it’s theatrical debut in Toronto soon and Cats so I have to either save my pennies or pick my favorite! Tough call for sure 🙁
Suz
The Wizard of Oz is my favourite movies of all time i remember going to the theatre with my parents i wasn t very old good memories !!
This must of been awesome to see and I would have loved to see it.. The dogs are really cute !