Behind the Rainbow: The Wizard of Oz Preview
Scarlett Shdeed (‘28), Staff Writer
The Wizard of Oz is a must-see musical. It is being performed at Casady School’s Fee theatre on November 13th, 14th, and 15th, starting at 7:00 pm. The musical will also be performed on the 16th at 2:00 pm. It is a truly enchanted musical with many amazing songs, dances, and an incredible cast.
Casady School's production of The Wizard of Oz is led by Heath Jones as the main director, Kortney McQuade as the Tech director, Richard Jobe as the conductor, and Joe Bonfiglio as the assistant director. This musical is so grand that they have hired a new choreographer, Keagan Buckaloo, and also a new middle division director, Ellie Valdez. These directors have worked tirelessly to ensure a fun environment for all the cast and for the audience.
The Wizard of Oz stars Dorothy, played by Sofia Dyer (‘26), a young girl from Kansas who is swept up by a storm and wakes up in the magical land of Oz. With her friends, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Lion, she searches for the Wizard of Oz in Emerald City. The Scarecrow is played by Austin Rindler (‘26), the Tin Man is played by Noah Rindler (‘28), and the Lion is played by Allison Burkhart (‘27). “These actors were cast perfectly,” said Caroline Blakewell (‘28). They have put their all into developing their characters and ensuring a good performance for the viewers. Along with our main cast, we have an incredible ensemble. Our ensemble includes High School and Middle School students. “Our whole cast is so talented,” said Eleanor Cloud (‘29). While other actors may not have as much time on the stage as the 4 main characters, they shine just as much. The cast goes to rehearsals 3 times a week to perfect their choreography, work on music, and memorize their lines. It is not only a fun experience for the cast, but their lively personalities and authentic emotions shine through each character.
Not only do we have incredible actors, but we have an amazing Tech crew. They have spent months preparing stage designs, inserting sound cues, and perfecting the lighting to ensure that the performance runs smoothly. They have worked tirelessly to create Casady's most enchanting set yet. “It is breathtakingly beautiful,” said Charlotte Sparling (‘29). The set has 2 platforms and is layered with gorgeous designs to represent Kansas and the land of Oz. The lights, music, and beautiful designs have ensured a beautiful and lively representation of the iconic film.
The cast has spent months making this production enjoyable for everyone who watches it. “It’ll get you dancing on a thousand toes,” said Sofia Walter (‘29). Every actor has put their all into their characters and their performances, and the tech crew has also worked vigorously to ensure that the audience feels as though they are truly in the Land of Oz. Casady’s production of The Wizard of Oz brings a welcoming, authentic, and enchanting experience for all who watch it. This musical is truly magical, and it is not one to miss.
