The timeless classic THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ, onstage in another timeless classic, the New Theatre in Cardiff, presented by ORBIT, probably one of our most prolific theatre company’s, it really feels like our musical theatre dreams have all come true. And this is a production that doesn’t disappoint.
Like most theatrical groups, ORBIT have waited a long time to get back onto the stage and it was clear to see the excitement amongst the cast, and no doubt the backstage crew. This is a very special week for them all, and they were out to enjoy performing as much as we were watching the show.
The audience, which included many Mums, Dads, Gran and Grandpa’s, and a fair helping of younger family members, were up for the action from the very first note. It was great watching so many proud parents revelling in their kids having such a great time on stage.
Before we go any further, let’s check in with some of the audience to see what they liked about the production, and yes, everyone was unanimous in their approval.
I feel I don’t really need to tell you much about the plot of this 122 year old classic – I know, 1900 this was published, and with a bit of theatrical wizardry magic, the story is as fresh and fun as ever.
All our favourite characters are there, Dorothy (SOPHIE BAKER) the young girl who lives with her Aunt Em, Uncle Henry, and dog, Toto (ELLA).
Apologies for starting with the four legged member of the company, but Toto was a huge hit with the audience before she’d done anything. As soon as she waddled onto the stage, the audience were taken with her. We were of course waiting for those unpredictable moments you get with animals in shows, and Toto didn’t disappoint.
As for the humans, they all perform their roles superbly, especially the star of the show Sophie Baker as Dorothy. It’s a hard role to play as she’s on stage for much of the production. She carries it off effortlessly and has a voice more than capable of delivering these Judy Garland classics.
One big gust of wind transports Dorothy and Toto into Munchkin Country in the magical Land of Oz. This was handled really well with some clever projection, which appeared to be actual footage from the original movie. The Wicked Witch of the East is accidentally squished en route, much to the delight of the Munchkins and earns Dorothy a shiny pair of magical red shoes that once belonged to the Wicked Witch.
The Good Witch tells Dorothy that the only way she can return home is to follow the yellow brick road to the Emerald City and ask the great and powerful Wizard of Oz to help her. As Dorothy embarks on her journey, she is sent on her way by the cutest group of Munchkins, who I have to say captured the elements of the movie really well.
Along the yellow brick road, which looks pretty stunning on the New Theatre stage, Dorothy frees a Scarecrow (DANIEL IVOR JONES) from a pole, puts oil from a can to the rusted joints of a Tin Woodman (FRAN HUDD), and meets a Cowardly Lion (MATHEW PREECE). All usual everyday things in the Land of Oz.
Each of the trio of unlikely heroes are terrifically played, but I feel a special mention should be given to the Cowardly Lion. Mathew was outstanding as the lion and had all the mannerisms that made Jack Haley such a hit in the movie.
The Scarecrow wants a brain, the Tin Woodman wants a heart, and the Lion wants courage, so Dorothy tells them to join her and Toto to the Emerald City to ask for help from the Wizard.
The show is packed with more classic songs than you can shake a witches broomstick at. And the guys in Orbit breath some fresh life into them with some terrific arrangements by the Orbit Theatre Orchestra under the Musical Direction of ROB THORNE.
We would love to mention all of the company right here, but trust us when we say there are lots of them, and we mean lots. Our tip is to treat yourself to a programme which gives everyone involved a credit. There’s lots of pictures and puzzles, including a cute snap of Ella the dog.
What I haven’t said throughout this review, is that ORBIT are indeed an amateur theatrical company, actually strike that, they are Wales leading amateur theatrical company. It’s their incredibly high standards which has won them countless awards, and praise from some of the biggest names in the business.
Many performers have passed through the ORBIT warehouse and gone on to carve out thriving careers. Be in no doubt that this talented company of performers adopt the highest standards set by any company, professional or otherwise. What is unique about the way they operate is the chance they give new talent.
They have an ‘Open Audition’ process, ensuring casting is fresh and offers newcomers the chance to gain valuable performance experience with a team of Directors, Musical Directors and Choreographers who are highly qualified and experienced industry professionals who take pride in ensuring high production values.
All of that shone through in every scene in this colourful, funny and incredibly charming production. As I said earlier, the cast were having a ball, and so did we in the audience. We sang, booed, cheered and applauded in all the right places, and then some.
Don’t go and support the show because it’s an amateur production, with lots of young people having a great time on stage. Go and watch it because it’s simply a great show, filled with songs we know and love, and a talented company of performers who are truly dedicated to giving us a great time for the 2 hours and 20 minutes we are in our seats.
I really loved the production and found myself smiling, singing and laughing all the way through.
THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ is on right now at the New Theatre in Cardiff. It runs till this Saturday with performances at 1 and 5pm each day. For more details, and to get your tickets, go HERE.
