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The Great and Terrible Wizard of Oz
Adapted from L Frank Baum’s novel
by Phillip C. Klapperich
Directed by Tommy Rapley
Produced by The House Theatre of Chicago
At the Viaduct Theatre
3111 N. Western Ave
Chicago, IL
Call 773-251-2195, tickets $10 - $19
Thursday thru Saturdays at 8 PM
Sundays at 7 PM
Running time is 2 hrs, 15 min with intermission
Through November 5, 2005
Refreshing take on Oz delivers
The folks at the House Theatre have become a smooth efficient theatre troupe without losing any of their creativity. The continue to push the level of Chicago theatre with a curious blend of story telling that uses music, special visual and audio, stage combat, puppetry, dance, magic and shadow play with quirky costuming and cute mixtures of camp, asides and adlibs to offer highly entertaining shows. This formula has produced a huge following particularly with the 20-30something crowd. That is impressive.
Their lasted show, The Great and Terrible Wizard of Oz, uses their curious mixture to produce a clever twist on the classic beloved fairy tale. This is a terrific show full of surprises yet with clarity that pays homage to Baum’s original. Phillip C. Klapperich captures the complete sides of Oz including the darker elements. This works. We see Dorothy become a reluctant Witchslayer as she struggles with the forces of evil.
From Molly Brennan’s green-haired deliciously evil witch to Jake Minton’s empathetic Cowardly Lion to Cliff Chamberlain’s commanding Tin Woodsman, we enjoy the journey with Dorothy, Paige Hoffman in a well-rounded strong take more complete than the usual ‘Dorothy.’ All the normal characters are heard but with the dark humor and clever zingers, these characters are so likeable that we empathize with their plight.
Director Tommy Rapley, a choreographer, has infused several wonderful dances that underscore the action and themes marvelously. Together with some fine stage combat (another House Theatre staple); Rapley keeps the show moving with enough dramatic tension to keep us engaged. Joe Steakley playing the dog, Toto was inventive and Dennis Watkins’ Wizard (and other characters) demonstrates his acting acumen.
With three effective folk-rock songs to liven the evening, this Oz is freshly entertaining in the unique House Theatre performance style. If you’ve never seen a House production, you’re in for a treat. These folks deliver pure fun.
Recommended
Tom Williams
Tom99@chicagocritic.com for comments
Chicago Stage Talk Radio Show
This show is eligible for a C.S. T. Non-Equity Theatre Award
September 17, 2005
Jeff Recommended
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