Live musical version of beloved classic film on stage in Modesto region. See where
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Have you introduced your child or children to the joys of live musical theater?
Or, maybe you and your family already are hooked.
The perfect opportunity is going on now to enjoy the magic of the stage, just a short drive from Modesto with “The Wizard of Oz” playing in Columbia.
The production will play various times Wednesdays-Sundays through July 27 at the Fallon House Theatre in Columbia State Historic Park, presented by Sierra Repertory Theatre.
The stage adaptation of the classic film “promises iconic music, dazzling design, and a timely message about friendship, courage, and coming together when it matters most,” according to a press release from SRT.
The production features songs from the film such as “Over the Rainbow,” “If I Only Had a Brain” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard.”
The cast of lead characters will be there: Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion.
“Together, they face down witches, winged monkeys and the dubious Wizard of Oz himself,” according to the press release.
The musical is co-directed by Sierra Rep Executive Producer Scott Viets and Producing Artistic Director Jerry Lee.
“This isn’t just a nostalgic favorite, it’s a parable for right now,” Lee said in the release. “At its heart, ‘The Wizard of Oz’ is about what it takes to stay together when things fall apart. It’s about the friendships our heroine forms, and the community she builds along the way, that carry her through.”
L. Frank Baum’s tale of a Kansas girl who suddenly finds herself in a land of magic has lasted through the generations. This SRT version “faithfully re-creates the magic of the 1939 film while adding theatrical flair and fresh energy perfect for the stage,” according to the release.
Dorothy finds herself in the land of Oz, where she meets the Scarecrow, who has no brain, the Tin Man, who’s missing a heart, and the Cowardly Lion, who lacks courage. Dorothy seeks her way back home while her friends hope to gain what they’re missing from the Wizard.
“We all get a little lost sometimes. But when we reach out and lean on each other, we find our way back,” Viets said in the release. “It’s a story of resilience, heart, and humor. And it’s just what we need this summer.”
Sierra Rep long has been a destination for theatergoers in the region and actually has two venues – the Fallon House in Columbia and its East Sonora Theatre. The troupe performs a variety of shows and is currently presenting its 46th season. For more see sierrarep.org.
