Rehearsals are underway at the Avenue Theatre for the summer musical “The Wizard of Oz,” directed by Jordan Hall.
L. Frank Baum’s classic novel comes to life in the stage production of “The Wizard of Oz.” This faithful adaptation by the Royal Shakespeare Company features all the most beloved songs and moments from the 1939 classic film, brought to life onstage, according to show promoters.
The synopsis: Young Dorothy Gale is swept away by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the magical land of Oz. There, she encounters a host of whimsical characters: good witches, bad witches, animals that talk, scarecrows that walk and things magical to behold.
To find her way home, she must journey along the Yellow Brick Road to see the mysterious and all-powerful Wizard in Emerald City. Along the way, she makes new friends, but must also brave many dangers, including the Wicked Witch of the West, who will stop at nothing to get her hands on Dorothy’s magical ruby slippers.
To make it home safely, Dorothy must learn an important lesson: There’s no place like home.
The show’s cast features several veteran Avenue actors, say promoters: Hayley Hershenson, who has appeared in supporting roles in many Avenue productions, will grace the stage as Dorothy in her first leading role.
A staple of Avenue summer musicals in recent years, Travis Rhoads will bring the Cowardly Lion to life, while the larger-than-life Tray Whitsell is sure to thrill audiences with his portrayal of the Tin Man, who only wants a heart, and Trevor McKinney will bring slapstick humor to the role of Scarecrow, promoters add.
“This is a show I have avoided for some time,” said Director Jordan Hall. “This year I just felt like the universe was telling me it’s time. I am so proud of this cast and the work they are doing. Our goal is not to be pretty good for a community theatre, we aim excellence that would stand up on any stage.”
For the first time in its history as a live theater, the Avenue will also have a proper light/sound booth. A portion of the former projection room is being converted for that use. In addition to giving the technicians a better vantage point for productions, this move also opens up 24 seats that were previously unable to be sold.
“I am so excited to see the changes happening at the Avenue,” said theatre Manager Chris Herbolsheimer. “I think everyone will love the changes we are making in the balcony to give it a more lounge-like feel.”
“The Wizard of Oz” will open at 7 p.m. July 8, with additional shows at 7 p.m. July 9, 12, 14, 15, and 16. There will also be two 3 p.m. matinees on July 10 and 17.
Tickets are currently on sale, and can be purchased at theavenuetheatre.org, starting at $12.
Tickets may also be purchased at the Avenue Bagel Co. from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays.
The doors will open 30 minutes prior to showtime.
