(Note from Wendy: I apologize profusely for not getting this review out on time. Pat wrote it in plenty of time, but I have been having computer trouble. Again...my sincerest apologies... especially to the cast and crew.)
The first clue that this would be a different production is that Toto is played by Andrew Brown. I found myself watching the “dog’s” reaction to what was happening on stage more often than not. If good acting is a matter of reacting, Andrew hit the mark. He proved the old theatre advice of never share a stage with a child or a dog because they will upstage you every time. Andrew will be going into third grade this fall.
Costume designer Michael Turner provided other hints that we were in for something different. I liked the monochromatic brown costumes at the opening of the show, allowing for the contrast of bright, vibrant colors in the Land of Oz. The ruby slippers were perfect. I was impressed that Dorothy could dance in them.
Kali Haines returned to Millbrook to play Dorothy. Hali carried the show like an old hand; she and her little dog Toto are on stage almost the complete evening. She dances (in red ruby heels!) plus, she sings and acts. Later in the season,we will see a different side of Hali in Happy Days.
Dorothy’s friends, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion, were each delightful. Richard Spitaletta was as loose limbed as any scarecrow that I’ve seen. There were times that it was hard to tell if his “falls” were real or part of his dance. Jake Evans had a sweet dignity as Tin Man. We knew all along that he already had a heart. Everyone loves the cowardly Lion and Philip Bolton was adorable---very loud roar and all. I have always been a big fan of Bert Lahr’s and so was very happy to see Philip channell this old burlesque star so well at times. We will see all three of these talented young men later in Happy Days.
Tom Lavalee does triple duty as Professor Marvel, the delightful guard in Oz and the Wonderful Wizard himself. Tom takes control of the stage, especially as the guard who protects the Wizard from unwanted company. There was enough of the lively leprechaun in him that I wondered if Finnigan’s Rainbow has ever been considered. Look for him in a major role in Happy Days.
Good Witch or Bad Witch? It makes no difference. Both were so much fun. Katrina Diehm’s Glinda, the Good Witch of the North gave depth to the goodie-goodie role. She may have been wearing a sweet smile throughout the evening, but at times it seemed just a touch sarcastic and maybe a bit judgemental. I loved her.
The Wicked Witch of the West was gleefully played by Maren Fischer. Not only was she perfect as the grumpy Miss Gultch, she was evil itself as the Wicked Witch. She may also have endured the longest death scene in the history of dramatic theatre. She had the audience right from “ I coulda been a contender”. Both of these talented actors will be in Happy Days. If you think that you know The Wizard of Oz, go to Millbrook and you will be surprised how fresh this classic can be. It will run June 18 through the 22 with a matinee at 2:00 on the 18th.
Miss Abigail’s Guide to Dating, Mating & Marriage starts on June 20 in the Cabaret. (This will star Marc de la Concha, a Millbrook favorite from the past). Happy Days will open June 27 on the Main Stage. Call 570 748 8083 for tickets or check out their website for more information.
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