The Wizard of Oz, Collingwood RSC, HMS Collingwood (From Daily Echo)

The Wizard of Oz, Collingwood RSC, HMS Collingwood

10:33am Monday 10th December 2012 in Curtain Call By Anne Waggott

All the well-loved characters, plus a few new ones and old friends (good to see Buttermilk again!) are present in this new, originally-scripted version of The Wizard of Oz.

Robin Sheppard bounded onto stage as the irrepressible, effervescent Dame Hilda and had a terrific rapport with the audience, his excellent delivery and timing showing a clear aptitude for the role! Laura Woodward was a quirky, tottering Glenda, contrasting well with the malice, poise and withering glare of Sarah Miatt’s Wicked Witch of the West.

Megan Mullins was outstanding as Keith the flying monkey, with wonderful stage presence and physicality, with Liz Philo, Jane Blatch-Gainey and Emma Heath bringing a wealth of experience to inhabit the roles so well of Scarecrow, Lion and Tinman respectively, and Ashleigh Motley (Dot) and Abi Philo (Jake) making an engaging couple.

A few technical hitches, but well directed with good pace for a fun evening’s entertainment!