The Wizard of Oz

Queensland Musical Theatre’s skip down the Yellow Brick Road was an enjoyable experience thanks to astute casting by director Deian Ping of the central characters. It wasn’t flawless, but the spirit of Frank L. Baum’s timeless and beloved story was captured on stage.

Amy Winner was a feisty Dorothy with a sweet voice and sang the score’s iconic “Over the Rainbow” with style. Conor Ensor was an amusingly boyish Scarecrow and his “If I Only Had Brain” routine was one of the first act’s genuine highlights. Mention should also be made of the Three Crows (Steph Booth, Laura Eban, Katya Taibi) who added to the fun of the scene.

James Rogers captured the charm of the Tinman and showed off his terrific tap ability in the “If I Only Had a Heart” sequence. Best of all though was Shane Webb’s Cowardly Lion. His wonderful vocal delivery and funny stage-business were a delight and lifted the show whenever he appeared. Ros Booth, wearing the Wicked Witch of the West’s black hat was eminently hissable, with Amy Cooper (Glinda), Adam Milton (Wizard), Rob Carr (Uncle Henry) and Tammie Watson (Aunt Em) each earning their place in the spotlight.

Costuming was good, especially for the Winkies, Julianne Burke’s dance routines were busy, and there was inventive use of audio-visual in the sets. The show is, and always has been, very long but Deian Ping kept it moving, helped by Gerry Crooks tight control of the 24-piece orchestra.

Peter Pinne

Images (from top): L to R - Tinman (James Rogers), Lion (Shane Webb) and Scarecrow (Conor Ensor); L - Dorothy (Amy Winner) and R - Glinda (Amy Cooper); L to R Scarecrow (Conor Ensor). Tinman (James Rogers), Dorothy (Amy Winner) and Lion (Shane Webb); West Witch (Ros Booth) and Ozians.