The Ohio State University at Marion will present the Broadway musical production, The Wiz, Thursday, November 13 and Friday, November 14, 2014 7:30 p.m. in Morrill Hall Auditorium as part of their Five Nights on Campus cultural arts series.
The Wiz, book by William F. Brown, music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls, is a delightful retelling of L. Frank Baum’s immortal 1939 classic, The Wizard of Oz. After a long and successful run, the show has had many revivals. A film adaptation was released in 1978. This production will showcase Ohio State Marion students, as well as a host of community performers.
According to Director Scott Persinger, they fielded one of the more talented student/community casts to ever grace the campus stage.
“We have been blessed this year to find the perfect people to bring this story to life,” said Persinger. “The cast truly fits well into their roles and enjoys working with each other.”
“I think the biggest message to impart to those thinking of attending the show is how wonderfully entertaining and appropriate this is for all ages,” he shared. “From toddlers to seniors, everyone is familiar with this classic tale and the characters.”
From the music to the costumes, The Wiz is a soulful version of The Wonderful Wizard of OZ, explained Persinger.
“In this day and age, it is difficult find low cost, high value family entertainment,” Persinger added. “This punches both those tickets!”
The cast of The Wiz includes: Cast includes: Mallory Gleespen as Dorothy; Hannah Fuller as Scarecrow; Jay Reid as Tin Man; Martin Harris as Lion; Candace Boahene as The Wiz; Julie McGinnis as Aunt Em/Glenda; Emily Christman as Addaperle; Paige Mosely Filliater as Evilenne; Emily Levings as Gatekeeper; Kris Kasotis as Lord High Underling; Ian Clouse as Uncle Henry; and chorus members Chelsea McQuillen, and Gerrilyn Shively.
Production staff includes: Director – Scott Persinger; Music Director – Austin King; Choreographer – Matt Mead; Assistant Director/Stage Manager – Beth Hartzler; Accompanist – Becky Shipman; Costume Designer – Becky Boles; Set Designer – Joshua Tennar; Sound & Light Engineer – Brian Jester/JCR Studio; and Producer – Wayne Rowe.
Tickets are available in advance by calling 740-725-6340 or in the Office of Community Relations & Development, Maynard Hall, Room 240. Tickets are $15 general admission; $10 for students. Tickets will also be available at the door the evening of each performance, while they last.
“Wiz, The” is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.
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