Absolutely Over the Rainbow

The Wizard of Oz–by Paramount Theatre

Absolutely Over the Rainbow

Paramount Theatre has done it again! Each new production seems to top their previous offering, and that’s saying a lot. Almost without exception, every musical that Paramount produces, under the masterful artistic direction of Jim Corti, is an exquisite, professionally produced, jaw-dropping spectacle that will always be remembered as fantastic. Well, this latest family production, has it all; and it’s absolutely over the rainbow with creative talent and fun.

Since this classic movie first delighted children and grownups on the silver screen back in 1939, L. Frank Baum’s imaginative fantasy has been a continual favorite. Whether on film, in print or live on stage, as it is here, this story, with its fanciful elements and inspiring lesson about friendship, is one of the most beloved in children’s literature. Featured here are all the wonderful, lovable characters setting off on an adventure that has become familiar the world over. The road story, directed and choreographed by the gifted Amber Mak, is about how real friends help, comfort and support each other, as well as the share the thrill of discovering new places. Ultimately, however, we’re reminded that, in the end, there really is no place like home.

Elizabeth Stenholt steps into the ruby slippers as Dorothy, the young farm girl from Kansas who, with her sweet little dog, Toto (played by a wonderfully-trained pup named Nessa), is swept away to Oz by a cyclone. As lovely and charming as she is earnest, Ms. Stenholt treats audiences to her own special rendition of “Over the Rainbow,” as melodic as Garland’s iconic version. On her way, Dorothy meets Harriet Nzinga Plumpp, as a lovely, glittering pink Glinda, the Good Witch, who flies through the air in a giant, circular bubble. She soon meets all the Munchkins who advise her to “Follow the Yellow Brick Road.” 

Continuing on her journey Dorothy meets Kyle Adams’ warmly sincere, lanky, rubber-jointed Scarecrow; Carl Draper’s silver-clad, silver-throated, tap-dancing Tin Man; and Paul-Jordan Jansen’s warm, fuzzy and very funny Cowardly Lion. The trio enchants the audience with their musical yearnings for a brain, a heart and some nerve, before joining Dorothy on the Yellow Brick Road, heading “Off to See the Wizard.” Did Yip Harburg and Harold Arlen have any idea of the enduring magic they’d created when composing all those wonderful, infectious songs? 

Before long, cackling, green-skinned Wicked Witch of the West, portrayed with devilish delight by Caron Buinis, flies in on her broomstick to wreak havoc and challenge Dorothy for possession of those magical ruby slippers. Although she may momentarily frighten some of the younger kiddies in the audience, there’s more humor than horror in Ms. Buinis’ accomplished characterization. At last the quartet meets the Wonderful Wizard himself, played with glee by character actor Gene Weygandt. This talented thespian is known for portraying the Wizard in another musical, Broadway in Chicago’s Windy City production of “The Wiz.” Also doubling as Uncle Henry, a wildly talented Steve O’Connell makes the Emerald City Guard a far more memorable and entertaining character than audiences might expect.

A vast array of magnificent, magical costumes, are the handiwork of theatre artist Theresa Ham and her talented staff. They are reminiscent of the film without being a carbon copy. Katie Cordts is responsible for all the creative wigs, hair and makeup designs. Jesse Mooney-Bullock has designed and created menagerie of wonderful puppets, from a trio of singing crows to an army of winged monkeys. 

The show’s magnificent, colorful scenic design is the product of the imaginative duo of Kevin Depinet and Christopher Rhoton, gorgeously enhanced by Kevan Loney’s spectacular, moving projection work. Greg Hofmann’s brilliant and scene-stealing lighting helps take everyone on a journey from Kansas to Oz and back home again. He’s particularly effective in creating the poppy field and a very realistic-looking cyclone. 

Kory Danielson skillfully guides and directs all of the live music, including conducting a full-sounding backstage orchestra, secreted away somewhere within the inner sanctum of the theatre. Kudos to Megan E. Farley for her hand at assisting Ms. Mak with direction and choreography, which is always first rate. The “Jitterbug” number alone is a marvel of motion and is as infectious as it is fun.

A true feast for the eyes, ears and soul, this musical is a magically delightful stage adaptation of the classic 1939 film that made a star out of a young Judy Garland. Adapted from L. Frank Baum’s children’s book, the faithful play is by John Kane, of the Royal Shakespeare Company. It features the beloved music and lyrics of Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. A happy alternative to the many holiday-themed productions that fill area stages, this joyous, cinematically faithful, miraculous musical production, beautifully directed and choreographed by Amber Mak, is for all ages. Of course, everyone’s familiar with this story, but seeing it brought to life with so much joy, and by such a talented company, is what theatre is all about. This is a journey to Oz that audiences will never forget. 

Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

Presented November 14-January 6 by Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, IL.

Tickets are available in person at the theatre box office, by calling 630-896-6666 or by going to www.paramountaurora.com.

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