We're Not In Kansas Anymore
Early discussions between Director Tim Jebsen and Scenic Designer Brian Baillif revealed a mutual interest in preserving the show’s special moments while introducing new experiences. “To find our unique voice and fuel interest among theatre-goers, we have developed a fresh spin on the classic film without compromising its beloved qualities. For instance, we’re working hard to employ the transition from sepia tones in Kansas to vibrant color in the Magical Land of Oz which loyal fans of the film find essential to the story’s success.” says Baillif.
Out of these creative brainstorming sessions exploded Baillif’s evolved concept of Munchkinland. In MCT’s 450th membership production, members of Oz’s Lollipop Guild find refuge beneath bright, bulbous mushrooms.
Further developing the concept, new Costume Designer Micheal Waid utilizes recycled costumes from MCT’s 1997 production of The Wizard of Oz. Waid used dye to saturate the original fabric, bringing its hue up to speed with Baillif’s vivid vision. Waid extends this theme to exploit assumptions surrounding Glinda the Good Witch of the North. “We must remember Glinda is in fact a witch rather than a fairy princess as she is portrayed in the film. Deviating from her tiara-and-wand-clad image in the film, she will be equipped with a witch’s hat reminiscent of her arch nemesis. But don’t worry, her benevolent nature remains pure.” adds Waid.
Glinda’s new look is just the beginning of a myriad of changes as production brings the play to life with state-of-the-art special effects. Adding to her repertoire of blood-curdling characteristics, the Wicked Witch will shoot flames from her fingers at the audience! 
Director Tim Jebsen has this to say about the upcoming show, “Our opening musical is a classic of the American theatre and we welcome its return to our stage. There are several cast members from the 1997 production returning to play new roles and many newcomers gracing the stage as well. What a wonderful way to open our new season.”
That’s right, you can’t miss this show because ‘It’s not the same old Oz’! And did we mention the winged monkeys? Oh yes, they will indeed be flying.
MCT’s 450th membership production, The Wizard of Oz, opens Friday, February 5th and continues through Saturday, March 6th on the main stage of Cole Theatre located at 2000 W. Wadley Ave., Midland, Texas 79705. Don’t miss out – reserve your seats for this one-of-a-kind show. If you haven’t purchased your 2010 Membership, it’s not too late to do so. Call the MCT Box Office at 570-4111 or visit us online at www.mctmidland.org to purchase tickets and memberships and “escape” with us to The Wizard of Oz and several more exciting productions in 2010.
Are you interested in taking part in this inventive set or costume construction as well as future backstage projects with MCT? Work calls take place Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. additionally on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. During the weeks leading up to opening nights, extra assistance is requested and hours are expanded. Call the MCT Business Office at 682-2544 for information and encouragement.
See you at the theatre!
P.S. Love what you see on stage? Keep in mind the set is available for sale or rent!
