1. Sutton Guardian Newspaper, Scene Leisure Pages
Theatre Review – The Wizard of Oz, Secombe Theatre, Sutton
All involved gave a dazzling performance in the Seacombe Theatre’s enchanting version of The Wizard of Oz, a two-hour festive
treat directed by Keith Lancing, writes Samantha Hunter.
Both young and old alike will enjoy the timeless tale of Dorothy (Hannah Everitt) and her unlikely companion’s travels along the
yellow brick road to find the wizard so he can grant them their wishes.
The audience’s children were particularly delighted by the evil Miss Gulch and the even darker character of the Wicked Witch of
the West (both played by Russell Hawkins). With every clap of thunder and burst of smoke which announced the witch’s arrival,
there was a ‘boo’ and ‘hiss’ from the enthralled crowd.
Dorothy shone throughout and Cowardly Lion (Louise Micklewight) stole our hearts during the magical adventure. Toto,
Dorothy’s little dog (Binki Beaumont) also deserves a mention as she didn’t put a paw wrong and was extremely obedient,
seeming to enjoy every minute of the audience’s attention.
Although Dorothy, Scarecrow (Chris Pugh) and Tin Man (Kevin Fuller) all have winning onstage presence, Micklewight’s
Cowardly Lion was the real star of the show as she made the audience chuckle with touches of humour glittering this mystical
fairytale.
Despite being an amateur show, the backdrops, stage, props and costumes were all first class, as were the lively musical
accompaniments and lighting effects which, combined with the actors’ glowing performances, makes you feel like you’re in the
West End.
The show leapt from one enchanting scene to the next and included all the classic tunes such as Somewhere Over the Rainbow,
Follow the Yellow Brick Road and We’re Off to See the Wizard, which the characters brought to life in their own unique way.
One of the best scenes, which forced a smile upon every face in the audience, is the famous ‘I’m melting’ scene, when Dorothy
finally rids Oz of the Wicked Witch of the West. A loud explosion, a huge puff of smoke and bold flashes of light coupled with
the witch’s terrifying screams as she melts away into the ground was a thrilling climax.
You’re certain to leave the performance believing, like Dorothy as she clicks her ruby slippers together, that ‘there’s no place
like home’. And you’ll be comforted as she finds solace back in Kansas with her family, but you’ll be left wondering whether this
adventure really did take place, or was it all down to Dorothy’s imagination.
