Review Rough Draft

Ruby Slippers and All, We’re Off to See the Wizard!
Brynne Mayne

Stephanie Stephens has done it, yet again. Despite the fact that London High School missed nearly two weeks of rehearsal, they have managed to pull off one of their best performances to date. “We’re off to see the Wizard” on March 4th through the 7th when London Theater Department will perform the classic musical, “The Wizard of Oz.”


Gracing the stage for the first time in a high school production, is freshman Rachel Richardson, taking on the role of Dorothy Gale. From Richardson’s phenomenal vocals, to the way she perfectly fits her character with her meek, yet determined personality, she shows a very promising performance.


Back for his third high school performance, is sophomore Matt Colvin, playing the Scarecrow. An obvious veteran to the stage, Colvin shows great improvement in his voice as well as his acting skills. With the combination of his stage presence, vocals, acting ability, and poise, Colvin will leave the audience longing for more.


From the varsity football field, to the wrestling mat, to the stage, is sophomore Jared Chastain, playing the cowardly Lion. Drawing attention with his remarkable dance ability, Chastain’s performance is very impressive. Producing a number of laughs throughout the show, Chastain is quite an exciting performer to watch.


Due to some difficulties, sophomore Jordan Farrell was thrown into the cast at the last minute. Taking on the role of the Tin Man, it was completely unnoticeable that Farrell had rehearsed significantly less than the rest of the cast. Shining with his strong acting abilities, Farrell was just another member of an extremely talented cast.


Also showing very promising performances were Jordan Penix, playing the Wicked Witch of the West, Jayne Reusch, playing Glinda the Good Witch of the North, and Sam Spahn, playing Oz. From Reusch’s outstanding voice, to Penix’s and Spahn’s hilarious acting lines, the three of them all generated considerably memorable performances.


Something new taking place on stage this year was the use of special effects. From fog machines, to fire, to a melting effect, to projector screens, to live crystal balls, the effects undeniably added to the show. Also adding to the performance was the stupendous set, built by Bruce Thompson, and elaborate costumes done by Deb Chochran.


Nearly stealing the show, were the small, yet bold additions. Forty munchkins from London Elementary School paraded around the stage in bright, multi-colored, multi-patterned costumes. Whether it was the way they glowed when they sang about the death of the wicked witch, the smiles that were always on their faces, or the way they put such purpose in each step they took, it was the small ones that left quite a lasting impression.


With the simple click of heels three times, London has brought a performance home yet again. From the talented, notable performances, to the eye catching set, costumes, and special effects, London’s Theater Department has produced another unforgettable show.