Thursday, April 13, 2006

Last weekend, Northwest High School came up with a creative and eye-catching performance of "The Wiz," an updated version of "The Wizard of Oz" focused on the same themes: finding and grasping the important things in life, such as family and friends, and becoming happy with one's self.

The story by L. Frank Baum is known to all. Dorothy, a young girl living in what seems to be a Kansas suffering from economic depression, is blown away by a tornado into a fantastical world of witches, wizards, munchkins and well-known adventures. Along the way she gathers help from new friends: a scarecrow who desires a brain, a lion seeking courage and a tin man who wants a heart. Despite supernatural obstacles, the heroes overcome all, and Dorothy manages to return home.

The story features Justine Moral as Dorothy, and she proves to be an actress with brilliant stage presence and a breathtaking voice. Each emotion she portrayed could be felt by the audience.

The Wiz (Miguel Amaguana) was commanding in presence and powerful in voice. This character imparts the lesson of being happy with one's self, and Amaguana depicted this wonderfully. His voice was pure and rich, and you could clearly sense the power in his tone.

Other strong performances included the Good Witch of the North, Addaperle (Stephannie Acha-Morfaw), who was hilarious and entertaining; the Gatekeeper (Chris Dooly), also funny and energetic; and Aunt Em (Hannah Debelius), who had a beautiful voice and sang the song that opened the show so well.

Some special lighting affects were used throughout the musical. One of the more fascinating scenes, which took place while some of the characters were running through a forest, was done with strobe lights.

The costumes were colorful and well thought out, especially the green outfits worn by the citizens of Emerald City. Dorothy's friends were well costumed, too, but the Tin Man stood out the best.

This musical was wonderful and entertaining, with magnificent actors and actresses who blew you out of your seat with the effect of a tornado.

Marissa Singer

Quince Orchard High School