The Wizard of Oz – Watermill Theatre, Bagnor

Picture: Mark Senior

The Wizard of Oz continues at the Watermill Theatre, Bagnor until 31 December 2024.

Star rating: two stars ★ ★ ✩ ✩ ✩

In the programme notes, adaptor Marietta Kirkbride very succinctly summarises how difficult it is to adapt a well-loved story such as The Wizard of Oz. Soaring lyrics and fantastical characters abound and you would simply struggle to compete with classics like ‘Follow the Yellow Brick Road’ and ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’. The 1975 American version The Wiz managed it by transporting Dorothy from Harlem, New York to the urban fantasy land of Oz with memorable numbers such as ‘Ease on Down the Road’ but unfortunately this latest adaptation is unlikely to have similar success or longevity.

The idea of bringing Dorothy into the 21st century as a recalcitrant teenager works well as this new interpretation of ‘Dot’ lives in an artificial and electronic fantasy land, making for an interesting parallel to the fantastical land of Oz. However, there are no hugely memorable songs except for ‘Follow the Yellow Route’ and that is probably only because it is repeated in the show several times as well as the finale.

Annabel Marlow does a great job as Dot, capturing the essence of today’s youth, partnering well with the energy and engagement that exudes from James Gulliford as Lionel, Sally Cheng as Scarrow and Chris Coxon as Tinman. At the performance reviewed, Angela Caesar was unwell, meaning that Signe Larsson covered the role of Aunt Em as well as her own roles as the terrifyingly self-assured Glenda and Oz’s luckless and comical PA. Understudy Halcyon Sheen covered Westly and The Wizard, making a remarkable attempt in very difficult circumstances. Dan Southwell’s Munchkin puppets are super cute and creatively reflect the instruments played by their alter-ego cast members.

However, while there is no denying their commitment to the production directed by Georgie Staight, the cast needs stronger support from not only the script but also the production team to give this show the quality that is usually found in abundance at the Watermill.

Julie Watterston