Stepping into the world of “The Wizard of Oz,” New Theatre Oxford set the stage for an eagerly anticipated modern rendition of L. Frank Baum’s classic, in collaboration with the Really Useful Group Limited.
Vivacious Vivienne, embodying the glamorous witch, and Aviva Tulley as Dorothy mesmerized the audience with a captivating blend of powerful vocals. The cast, featuring Benjamin Yates’ brainless cowboy-inspired Scarecrow and Marley Fenton’s sweet Tin Man, contributed to a dynamic ensemble.
In this talented mix, Nic Greenshields’ Lion emerged as a standout, skillfully balancing humor and sweetness. While the cast exhibited moments of brilliance, the portrayal of Toto as a somewhat quiet puppet, though charming, could have been elevated for a more lasting impact.
The production's visual narrative unfolded smoothly from a technicolour opening in Kansas to the urban landscape of Oz itself — marked by ubiquitous ads very reminiscent of Las Vegas. The stage masterfully blended video projections, crafting an enchanting cinematic spectacle that employed dynamic lighting and camera angles to guide the audience through immersive scenes.
The performance felt like watching a cinematic carnival, with cool choreography that was practiced to perfection, fusing theatrical magic with intense explosions and sparks — all set to the backdrop of lights whizzing past an electrifyingly vibrant yellow brick road. However, this constant spectacle — though exhilarating — might have benefited from occasional calm moments to allow certain aspects of its narrative to breathe and build toward more pronounced climaxes. Some storylines were left underexplored with loose ends while others — such as Dorothy’s capture — lacked detail for them to land much impact.
Nevertheless, this modern twist on “The Wizard of Oz” successfully balanced cinematic allure with theatrical charm. Such was showcased during the tornado storm scene when lightning broke across the stage in blinding flashes and thunderous sounds shook seats. This impressive display of lights, projected rain and the deafening sound of thunder intertwined cinematic and theatrical elements with great success.
In conclusion, the production presented a nuanced adventure, offering a contemporary take on a beloved classic. Despite occasional missteps throughout its magical world, it delivered an immersive experience that catered to both local enthusiasts and international audiences seeking to rediscover the timeless magic of Oz.
Each step along the iconic yellow brick road invited viewers on a journey that resonated in their memories — encapsulating the enduring enchantment of the yellow brick road and its timeless significance. Each tug from Dorothy upon her friends’ sleeves invited the audience to savor the nuances of this iconic tale. This theatrical production stretched beyond the bounds of Oz, creating a connection between the timeless narrative and the audience’s direct experience in their seats.