'We're off to see the Wizard'

NORWALK — Norwalk High School's drama department presents "The Wizard of Oz" in four shows from Thursday through Sunday at Erntsthausen Performing Arts Center on Shady Lane Drive. Nearly 50 cast members, assisted by a large technical crew, will appear on the school's proscenium stage in all the roles made familiar to generations of Americans through the hugely popular movie 1939 movie starring Judy Garland as Dorothy. In addition to Dorothy, audiences will enjoy other well-known characters from L. Frank Baum's classic tale, including Tin Man, Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, Auntie Em, Uncle Henry, Professor Marvel, Toto, Wicked Witch of the West and the eponymous wizard himself. Also appearing in the production are good witch Glinda, farmhands Hunk, Hickory and Zeke, Munchkins, Crows, Poppies, Winkies, Flying Monkeys and Jitterbugs — a role included in the original novel but not in the Warner Brothers' Hollywood version. Show highlights include rigging provided by an anonymous donor, with transportation donated by John Lendrum. The special harness enables aerial flights for Good Witch Glinda, Wicked Witch of the West, Tin Man, and Dorothy and the head monkey. Toto is played by "Lucky" Minor, pet of Kristi and Dan Minor, of Norwalk. As any theater-goer would expect, this production of "Wizard of Oz" has all of the beloved songs from the movie. Production director is Robyn Bauer, with retired music teacher Carol Phillips serving as music director. Want to go? Performances of "Wizard of Oz" are 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday. The Ernsthausen Performing Arts Center ticket window is open for an hour prior to each show. Tickets may also be purchased for later pickup at the ticket window by calling 419-660-6529. The auditorium has 998 seats, including the balcony.