The entire ensemble of adults and kids did a great job delivering this favorite fable. Standouts were Logan Moon as the Emerald City Guard; Brennan McKone as a very animated, unwittingly brainy Scarecrow; Gary Mitchell as the tender-hearted Tin Man; Dale Wayne channelling a touch of Burt Lahr as the reluctantly courageous Cowardly Lion; Rocky Heuft as Professor Marvel/Wizard bringing likable con-man befuddled wisdom; and Kat Koehn as the gleefully evil Wicked Witch of the West. But the real star was Hallie Ackerman as Dorothy. Her earnest presence, deft dog management, lovely singing, spirited dancing, consistent energy and pace tied the show together.
The true Wizard of this production is Tom Ferris, director and jack of all trades, set, sound, scenography… and managing a huge cast of 36 kids, 16 adults and one dog. It’s a wonderful conglomeration of all ages, sharing this classic with the audience. Kudos to choreographer Fran Ludington for imaginative but simple, effective choreography, that suited the skills of some very new dancers as well as the more experienced. Music director James Geer had them all singing their hearts out to the prerecorded music.
The All-of-us Express Guilds put many kids to work on costumes, props, scenery, sound, and lighting. Lighting was dramatic, led by crew head Cody Skalmowski. Costumes were plentiful and imaginative, led by Nina Crumpton and Kris Maier. Amelia Rogocka led the makeup team. The Ferris-designed set was based on many movable pieces, built in the Riverwalk Scene Shop and transported to Hannah Center with the help of College Hunks Hauling Junk. (Not to imply this set was “junk”; CHHJ haul all sorts of wonderful as well as terrible things.) The set was well juggled by backstage crew and fulfilled the demands of the show in colorful, creative and expedient ways. Sometimes cast members were part of the scenery.
This family musical continues through May 5, at HANNAH COMMUNITY CENTER 7pm Fridays, 2 and 7 pm Saturdays and 3 pm Sundays. Adults aged 18+ $12; children $10. General Seating; arrive early for best seats. For tickets call 517-333-2580 ext. 0 or go to http://www.showtix4u.com