The Wizard of Oz @ Delsea Regional High School

Delsea Regional High School took the audience "Over the Rainbow" with their realistic production of The Wizard of Oz!

The 1904 stage musical, based on the novel by Frank L. Baum, features music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. It follows young Dorothy Gale, who is swept away from her Kansas home by a tornado and lands in the magical land of Oz. Wanting to go home, she journeys to the Emerald City to get help from the Wizard of Oz. Along the way, she meets the Scarecrow, who wants a brain; the Tinman, who longs for a heart; and the Lion, who seeks courage. Over the years, the musical has been adapted into a film and revived in the West End, but Delsea's production put its twist on it.

The stage crew served as the anchor of the show. Their attention to detail and seamless transitions made Oz feel truly special. The cast's energy remained high throughout the performance, especially during numbers like "Ding Dong! The Witch is Dead." Despite the song's length, the Munchkins stayed enthusiastic, spreading their energy throughout the crowd.

Paige Effinger (Dorothy Gale), excelled in capturing the character's innocence, adventurous spirit, and compassion. Her rendition of "Over the Rainbow" was filled with curiosity and longing, capturing her desire to explore life outside of Kansas. Throughout the show, she maintained a strong presence, bringing sincerity to her interactions with the friends she met along her journey.

Nico Mazzarelli (Scarecrow), William Smashey Jr. (Tinman), and Ire Johnson (Lion) each brought distinctive physicality to their roles. Mazzarelli mastered the Scarecrow's clumsy, unsteady movements � frequently stumbling yet never overdoing it. Smashey stayed impressively stiff when the Tinman was first discovered, only loosening up with the oil applications. Johnson's performance as the Lion stood out...his timid walk at the start of the show sharply contrasted with his confident stance by the end, visually portraying his character's transformation. His animal-like mannerisms reinforced his lion persona, adding another layer to his performance.

The technical elements elevated the production in terms of set, costumes, and lighting. The stage crew created a stunning set, with details that made Emerald City's gates particularly memorable. Their tree curtains, projections, and the hot air balloon added depth and creativity to the staging. The Emerald Citizens' costumes were unique, featuring different styles and shades of green. Lighting choices played a crucial role in the story, such as the golden glow illuminating the Yellow Brick Road and the green lighting that emphasized the Emerald City and the Wizard himself.

Delsea Regional High School's Wizard of Oz was a captivating experience. With convincing character choices, infectious energy, and creative technical elements, the production transported the audience straight to the vibrant land of Oz.