What a wonderful show! For over 75 years the beloved Wizard of Oz has captured our hearts. Why the success? Why has the story been told over and over in cinema, song, story books, and stage? The idea of being able to magically transport to an ideal Oz, only to find out, "There's no place like home" resonates with most of us. The storyline also depicts the depth of family love and how far friendships will go to prove absolute loyalty. Of course, also within the land of Oz exists the reality of evil, always lurking around the next corner to snatch our dreams.
Our cast, crew, and staff have been diligent to offer the production you will see tonight. At first glance you will probably view regular teenagers having a blast, acting, singing, and dancing to the best of their abilities. But look deeper. Can you see it? Can you see students who truly desire to use whatever talent, big or small, for God's honor and glory? We hope so! Enjoy!
Cast Verse:
Psalm 16:11 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Here are some Fun Facts:
~The Wizard of Oz was released in 1939, the same year as Gone with the Wind. The film was nominated for 6 Oscars, but only won Best Score which was written by Herbert Stothart.
~There were 3,210 costumes created for the movie. SBA is using 90.
~The Wicked Witch’s face stayed green for weeks after shooting the original movie due to the makeup having copper-based ingredients. Abby, at least green is a school color as you march for graduation!
~Dorothy giggled while on the set when she was to slap the lion so, for the sake of characterization, director Victor Flemming slapped her! For the record, Mrs. Bateman has never used those tactics!
~The original Toto was was a female Cairn Terrier and paid $125 per week, more than many Munchkins. Our Toto, 'Sam Cook' has worked for treats!
~Dorothy's ruby slippers were originally silver in L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel. We chose red and had to order a child's size 3 ruby slipper for Kristen, which also fit Kimberly Lusardo as the Wicked Witch of the East.
~Bert Lahr’s Cowardly Lion costume weighed almost 100 pounds and was made with real lion pelts. Zach is tolerating a 25 pound, extremely hot costume for the sake of our entertainment! We were advised to use ice packs underneath!
~SBA's fine arts department had the wonderful opportunity to see 'Wicked' at the Apollo Victoria Theatre in London two years ago! This year we saw 'Aladdin' and 'Phantom of the Opera' in New York!
~The song “Over the Rainbow” was voted the #1 song of all time in 2001 by the Recording Industry Association Of America and the National Endowment for the Arts.
