Monday, April 5, 2010

Ruby Slippers and All, We're off to See the Wizard!

Success in “Footloose,” “Seussical the Musical,” and “The Sound of Music,” director 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, showcasing a treasure chest of “gems,” or extremely talented performers. March 4th through the 7th London’s Theater Department will perform the classic musical, “The Wizard of Oz.”

Three of the largest gems include sophomores Matt Colvin, Jared Chastain, and Jordan Farrell, who are obvious veterans to the stage.

Colvin, playing the scarecrow, shows great improvement in vocals from previous shows. The combination of his acting ability, poise, voice, and presentation, make him one of the best overall performers in the production.

Chastain, who is playing the cowardly lion, keeps the auditorium filled with laughter. Whether it is the way he runs at the sight of a tiny, harmless dog, or the way he uses his tail to wipe his tears, Chastain does a great job with the role.

Farrell, playing the tin man, took on a huge challenge by accepting his role. Due to some difficulties, he was thrown into the cast at the last minute. Despite the fact that he rehearsed significantly less than the rest of the cast members, Farrell’s ability to act outshines any small mistakes he might make.

Three smaller, but very shiny gems include 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 show promising, and memorable performances.

Finally, is the largest, shiniest gem of all. Gracing the stage for the first time in a high school production, is freshman Rachel Richardson, taking on the role of Dorothy Gale. Richardson’s phenomenal voice steals the show. Richardson was cast perfectly; she fits her character so well with her meek, yet determined personality. London should look forward to three more years with such a talented young performer.

There are several small, yet bold gems that help to fill the treasure chest. Forty munchkins from London Elementary School parade around the stage in bright, multi-colored, multi-patterned costumes. Whether it is the way they glow when they sing 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 take, it is the small ones that leave quite a lasting impression.

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 add to the show. Also adding to the performance was the stupendous set, built by Bruce Thompson, and elaborate costumes done by Deb Cochran.

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.

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