It's hard to imagine anyone not being aware of The Wizard of Oz. Whether their introduction was to the original books, the 1939 film or as the inspiration for a smash-hit London musical, the adventure of Dorothy and Toto are one of the most famous stories ever told.
Featuring the iconic original score from the Oscar-winning MGM film, with a few added extra's from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, this spectacular production bills itself as a truly magical experience for all the family - and magical is the best word to use.
This production comes straight from the London Palladium where it played to sold out audiences, and brings a show which - to be frank - is often a favourite of smaller local groups to some huge stages around the UK. With that comes an expectation to fill them, and Colin Richmond has done an amazing job of both filling the space with colour and amazement, but without taking away from the performers on stage.
Whilst 'Oz' has always been a lavish, flamboyant place but I can't help but feel there's at least a nod to Wicked in this production, which sits well with fans of the prologue piece. From Glinda's 'pink' demeanour, to her Oz-wide announcement and the flying monkeys, it adds an unintentional subtext which lets people who've not seen The Wizard of Oz before understand how the stories intertwine, which is a - possibly intentional, maybe not - stroke of genius.
This production very much feels like a live motion picture. It has all the magic of 1930s cinema but without over-indulgence and the soundtrack is expectedly sumptuous, as you'd expect, which only adds to the nostalgia. That said, this cast is fresh and undeniably talented - this isn't a throwback, The Wizard of Oz stands up against its peers with apparent ease.
The cast are, quite simply, sensational. Relatively early on in her career, Aviva Tulley dons the blue gingham to play Dorothy Gale and is an absolute sensation. This girls vocal ability is incredible and, in particular, her rendition of Over The Rainbow is jaw dropping. The power and control she has is remarkable and THAT note at the end...wow.
Aviva's joined by Craig Revel Horwood who is the epitome of The Wicked Witch of the West. This man is born to play roles like this, having recently starred as Miss Hannigan in Annie - and he gives it just the right amount of sass and camp. What's also lovely is, once again, this isn't the Craig-show. He's here on his credentials as a talented performer, not as stunt casting because of his celebrity.
Emily Bull plays a brilliant Glinda, bringing the pink sparkle and stunning soprano voice to the stage. Plus a special mention needs to go to Aston Merrygold, Benjamin Yates and Nick Greenshields as the Tin Man, Scarecrow and Lion respectively. The dynamic between these three is awesome and, whilst each is talented in their own right, their time together is funny, poignant and meaningful.
The Wizard of Oz is as magical as its name suggests - an absolute must-see for the Summer.
The show plays at Birmingham Hippodrome until Sunday 16th June. For more information, or to get your tickets, head to birminghamhippodrome.com.
