We’re Off to See the Wizard

By Jonah Barrett

Grab those glamorous, ruby slippers and follow the Yellow Brick Road all the way to Washington Street. L. Frank Baum’s magical tale of friendship and green people plays one night and one night only at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts this January. Now a national touring production, the story of The Wizard of Oz gained significant popularity with the 1939, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film adaptation that starred Judy Garland. Garland’s gone this time. Actor Kalie Kaimann will take the reins as Dorothy Gale, joined by actors Nick Gurinsky, Nicholas J. Pearson, Jack Saleeby and Murphy the dog as her quirky pals. To make things extra meta, the production coming to Olympia will not be based on the 1900 book but the MGM movie itself. Audiences can expect their favorite scenes to be recreated scene for scene in this new musical adaptation — with all the film’s beloved, classic songs. The Wizard of Oz National Tour is directed by Dean Sobon, whose recent directing credits include national tours of Fiddler on the Roof and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.

“We chose this production for a few reasons,” said executive director Jill Barnes. “It is one of the most beloved musicals of all time, we had an opportunity to bring the show here because it is touring in our region, and we know that our community loves musicals. This is a wonderful, staged production and we look forward to seeing the delight on the faces of adults and children alike as the magic of the story is brought to life before their eyes on The Washington Center stage.”

With colorful sets and costumes, dazzling songs and lavish special effects, The Wizard of Oz promises to be a treat for all.

 

WHAT

The Wizard of Oz National Tour

WHERE

The Washington Center for the Performing Arts,

512 Washington St. SE, Olympia

WHEN

7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 16

HOW MUCH

$55-$120

LEARN MORE

washingtoncenter.org/event/wizard-1901

360-753-8586

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