‘Because of the wonderful things he does’

Sullivan West’s production of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ brings down the house

richardross@riverreporter.cm >By RICHARD A. ROSS

LAKE HUNTINGTON, NY — It took a perilous journey in search of the Wizard of Oz to convince the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion and Dorothy that they already possessed what they each had sought the most.

As they ultimately discover, the character in the play is not a real wizard after all, but when it comes to putting on stellar productions, director Bill Moloney is truly one indeed. Once again, Moloney has demonstrated that he has an uncanny sense of theatre, can mobilize anyone and everyone to help with the zillions of things that need to be done, and in the end can stitch together a family of countless souls to create great theatre.

The result, Sullivan West’s musical production of Frank L. Baum’s “The Wizard of Oz,” was nothing short of magical.

Bravo to the cast, crew, musicians, stage and costume designers, lighting personnel and everyone who had a hand in creating three magical days in Oz.

Each of the principal characters excelled in his or her own right. Hannah Rettoun’s simple and pure presence brought Dorothy to life. Randall Grimm’s conscientious study of the part of the Scarecrow yielded a floppy, zany and witty performance. Evelyn Hett in her stunning Tin Man costume was a delight, and Mackenzie Roeder’s enactment of the Cowardly Lion was terrific and made this writer want to roar with delight.

No one could have played a more sinister Wicked Witch of the West than Laura Stabbert, whose voice and menacing threats were augmented by an amazing makeup job and a haunting costume.

Lighting and special effects made the show incredibly vibrant.

Jackie Ellmauer’s descent from the sliding staircase as Glinda the Good Witch and her down-home playing of Auntie Em were a delight. Gracie O’Connor stole her scene as the Green Guard, and the countless adorable Munchkins, flowers, crows, flying monkeys, soldiers, trees and, finally, Diana Justus as Gypsy Marvel/The Wizard of Oz completed an energetic ensemble that rekindled the ageless hit, a story that will never grow old.

Kudos to Moloney, vocal director Kim Eschenberg, pit orchestra director Ross Reynolds, producer Patricia Ellmauer and publicity agent Sharon Fife for their tireless energy. Peg Geisel’s costume designs were riveting and Tom Scardino’s sets and the gorgeous backdrops held the audience in rapt enchantment. Summer Johansen’s lighting accentuated the drama’s shifting moods, and Moloney’s endless bag of special effects added even more verve.

The production was not only first rate, it was a great education experience for the kids involved. Thanks to Moloney, Sullivan West students and the crew, audiences that filled the theatre on April 20 to 23 got to experience a taste of theatrical magic.

Thanks for a delightful journey “Over the Rainbow.”

for a complete list of cast and crew, click here.

Click here to see an album of over 300 photos from the play.

If you would like to purchase a CD containing all of those photos, send a check for $20 dollars payable to The River Reporter. Mail it Attn: Richard A. Ross, The River Reporter, P.O. Box 150, Narrowsburg, NY 12764.