WIZARD OF OZ – BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

Reviewed by: Frank Meccia

“ We’re off to see the wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz”.  This classic book/movie  has finally come to Chicago, after being in London, Toronto, and NYC. The Frank L. Baum tale was transformed to a movie in 1939, and has spent the last 75 years as a classic. Andrew Lloyd Weber and Jeremy Sams took this MGM classic and re-adapted it for the stage with some of the original songs that were left out for the movie and new songs added by Tim Rice.

As one lady sitting next to me said, “In a world of crisis it’s so nice to escape for 3 hours and remember an easier time in life”.  And she was so right. With the modern use of digital and video projections, everything you remember about this classic came to life. And with a national touring cast straight from London and Toronto Starring Danielle Wade as Dorthy,  Jay Brazeau as the Wizard and Jacquelyn Donovan as the Wicked Witch you have a tight and wonderful cast.

I have to admit the the scene stealer in this show was Toto played by Nigel a rescue from the Northeast Humane Society, who spends a great deal of time on stage and has his acting down to a tee. The next big plus is the 12 piece orchestra who bring all the music to life and make for one great enjoyable evening.

The Wizard of Oz is only playing till May 11, although I do wish it was playing longer. But for a Mothers day treat  bring mom and  the whole family to a theatre classic that everybody can enjoy. And remember “there’s no place like home.”

***** HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

For further information visit www.broadwayinchicago.com

Further information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com