A dazzling revival of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, The Wizard of Oz, is captivating audiences with its frenetically busy production and a stellar performance by Georgina Onuorah as Dorothy. Directed by Nikolai Foster, this adaptation brings a fresh and feisty energy to the timeless story.
Onuorah, known for her standout role as Ado Annie in a deconstructed version of Oklahoma!, delivers a bona fide star turn as Dorothy. Her portrayal is infused with a mesmerizing vulnerability, highlighted by a warm smile that tugs at the heartstrings. From her soaring vocals in the iconic song Somewhere over the Rainbow to the endearing chemistry with her puppet companion Toto, Onuorah truly embodies the emotional heart of the show.
The production’s dizzying pace and scattergun visuals can be overwhelming at times, but they successfully transport the audience from the Kansas plains to the vibrant Emerald City. Swooping video projections and three trucks bearing yellow arrows create a dynamic Yellow Brick Road experience. Although the pace rarely slows down, the show still manages to captivate with its imaginative set designs and energetic ensemble.
The core trio of Dorothy’s companions is also a standout. Louis Gaunt portrays the Scarecrow with endearing dimness and impeccable physicality, while Ashley Banjo brings a unique blend of robot body-popping and weak vocals to the role of the Tin Man. Comedian Jason Manford impressively channels the spirit of Bert Lahr’s Cowardly Lion from the original MGM musical.
Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s contributions to the iconic songs from the film, such as Ding Dong The Witch is Dead and We’re Off to See The Wizard, add new depth to the familiar tunes. One particularly memorable addition is Glinda and Dorothy’s duet Already Home, which showcases the chemistry between Georgina Onuorah and Dianne Pilkington as Glinda.
Speaking of Pilkington, her portrayal of the Wicked Witch of the West is deliciously villainous. Doubling as the nasty Ms Gulch, Pilkington adds a sinister edge to the character in the context of Jim Crow-era dustbowl America. Gary Wilmot provides reliable comic timing as the Wizard, while Rachael Canning’s eye-popping and inventive costumes enhance the high-energy ensemble numbers in Munchkinland and Oz.
Colin Richmond’s gaudy steampunk-inspired sets contribute to the show’s overall aesthetic, even if some of the visuals don’t fully cohere. For example, Christina Bianco’s Glinda riding a pink Barbie scooter with a mobile phone wand may feel out of place. Nevertheless, The Wizard of Oz remains a thoroughly entertaining slice of West End magic.
In conclusion, Nikolai Foster’s revival of The Wizard of Oz brings a frenetically busy energy and a bona fide star in Georgina Onuorah’s Dorothy. The show’s dazzling visuals, dynamic set designs, and talented ensemble make for an enchanting experience. While some elements may feel overwhelming or disconnected, the heartfelt performances, soaring vocals, and inventive touches ensure a memorable journey to the land of Oz.
