COS Productions

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The Wiz

Directed by: Jeff Fenter
Stage manager: Drew Parker
Music Director: George Gagliardi
Performances: July 28 - August 7, 2005

The Wiz

All the beloved characters of L. Frank Baum's original adventure -- Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion -- return in this soulful, swingin' version of one of the most popular stories of our time!

‘Wiz’ eases down road for Garland Civic Theatre

Show takes on soulful rendition of time-honored classic

By Wendy Kay Strain
Rowlett Lakeshore Times

Sparkling with talent and rich with tradition, Garland Civic Theatre’s Children on Stage production of “The Wiz” is a rare treat for the entire family.

In this upbeat, soulful rendition of the classic story, “Wizard of Oz” characters Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion dance and sing their way through the land of Oz, facing the perils of the poppy fields, the frightening Wizard of Oz and the wicked witch of the east to find that which they seek.

However, this isn’t the classic tale. You won’t find “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” in this production unless you’re really paying attention.

Instead, “The Wiz” includes songs such as “Ease on Down the Road,” “No Bad News” and “Slide Some Oil to Me” accompanied by a live band at the top of the vertical stage.

Band members included George Gagliardi on keyboard, Scott Meador on bass and Joe Cardinale on drums.

The show also featured several young people destined for a life in the spotlight.

Brie Valentine Dupar was stupendous in the role of Dorothy. With a clear, sweet voice equal to the challenge of her part and a personality that charmed even the smallest of audience members, Dupar has already seen some success in the field to which she seems born.

Professionally, she was named a finalist for the Broadway production of “The Lion King” and has appeared on the TV show ER.

She currently lists herself as a singer, songwriter and a member of ASCAP (The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers).

Nic Hawk plays the role of the Scarecrow with a delicate finesse that portrays both his straw nature and his steel resolve. Easing himself through the many acrobatics it takes to make the part convincing, Hawk is still able to carry his melody and demonstrate his character’s ability to think his way through a situation even if he doesn’t have a brain.

In the role of the Tin Man, Jonathan Coffield epitomizes cool jazz as he taps his way through his solo numbers.

Throughout the play, he is a stiffly moving man of tin, but once the music starts playing, he flows into his dance like liquid silver.

Bringing in more than a few laughs with his cowardly antics, Darius Robinson rounds out the main protagonists in the part of Lion.

Easily affecting a growl in his voice to match the nature of his character, Robinson plays his part in every move he makes, making it difficult to see the actor behind the lion’s mane.

Other actors in the production include Christian Houston, Kevin Norwood, Mallory Brophy, Holly Stone, Jennifer Sims, Katie Spanos, Audrey Olena, Jazzay Jabbar, Molly Brown, Alex Herbert, Colin Taylor, Rachel Pauletti, Brittany King, Bret Bello, Bailey Boyd, Joshua Matthew, Julia Golder, Matt Butterfield, John-Michael Lyles and David Hanna.

There were a few technical glitches in the opening night performance, but nothing that couldn’t be overcome with some minor adjustments in future shows or attributed to opening night jitters.

Small audiences found the fog and other stage effects, such as the set for the throne room, somewhat alarming, but exciting while everyone enjoyed the 1970s inspired costumes and vertical stage.

The show runs through Aug. 7 with show times beginning at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and matinees starting at 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

For more information or ticket reservations, call the Granville Arts Center box office at 972-205-2790.

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What are kids and parents saying after being involved in a COS production?

"This has been a great experience. My child had so much fun; the 'veterans' really included the 'rookies.'"

"Staff was very professional...enjoyed working with them."

"Our daughter was the youngest member of the cast, yet she felt so valued and important. The show has been a great first experience. Staff and cast have been wonderful."

"Our older daughter participated in (another community theater) this summer and as a family we agreed that Garland is where we prefer to see our daughters gain experience, learn and grow in the performing arts. Thank you for a fabulous summer!"

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