If you’re keen On the Wizard of Oz on film you’ll undeniably enjoy the stage version too. Red Shoes Blues sung by Hannah Waddingham as the Wicked Witch of the West is among the highlights, and a new song with words by Tim Rice : “She’s pretty, she’s clueless and I want her shoeless”. Only Andrew Lloyd Webber could deliver such a superb adaption of the hottest film in history.
Even the tiniest gaffe in judgment might have turned such a challenge into a tragedy, but this production delivers all the picture offers and more. What modifications were required to persuade it to work on stage appeared sophisticated, but were much more complicated than what it appeared. The effects were miraculous. The film’s musical score was only boosted, and the new additions only made it better. Michael Crawford as Professor Marvel was brilliant. Never once did he try to over-play the job. Danielle Hope was really better than Garland. This is Webber’s new Phantom. It’s likely to run for seventy five years in London and NY.
Conclusion
Totally adored The Wizard of Oz – a must see for fans of the first film as the musical actually sticks to the tale everyone knows and love. Great casting and a powerful set. Toto was fun to look at and “acted” brilliantly. A genuine feel good experience!
