'Wizard of Oz' is 'Wow!

The reviews are in and the Fallbrook Players Junior Conservatory’s production of “The Wizard of Oz,” under the direction of Diane Felthous, is a smash hit. The opening weekend played to near-capacity crowds who gave the actors standing ovations at each performance. But the overwhelming “Wow!” factor was, by far, the performances of the actors.

The Cowardly Lion, played by Chris Brooks, kept the audience laughing throughout the show with his over-the-top antics. The Tinman, played by Vista’s Michael Fortney, was wonderful and subtle as the woodsman who needs a heart. The Scarecrow, played by Emily Sperling, is the glue that holds the trio intact. Her witty remarks, coupled with great physical agility, have the audience convinced she just walked in from a Kansas cornfield. Filling the biggest ruby-red shoes of all is Anzy McWha, who had the audience spellbound during her singing of “Over the Rainbow.” Patrons overheard at intermission while reading the biographies of the actors could not believe she is only 10.

Toto is played by “Sparky,” arguably the most tolerant dog in Fallbrook. Glinda, played by Savannah Woodson, and the Wicked Witch, played by Mandy Bayless-Lee, were outstanding in their roles.

__The play runs through November 12. Curtain times are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m. For more information visit http://www.fallbrooktheater.com. To order tickets call (760) 731-2278 or visit the Mission Theater Box Office located across the street from the Fallbrook Mission Theater.