PICNIC BASKETS HAVE NEVER BEEN MORE MENACING. The Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild’s production of The Wizard of Oz includes cut scenes and ‘fireballs.’

Whether you are in need of courage, a heart, or a brain, the Wizard is just a short adventure away. Frank L. Baum’s magnificent tale of witches, wizards, and munchkins is about to take the stage at the State Theatre. The Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild presents The Wizard of Oz for the enjoyment of those on their first trip to Oz, as well as those who have experienced this timeless classic for years and years. Directed by Lucas Risinger, The Wizard of Oz sports a cast of over 100 Eau Claire locals ages seven to 70, including Taylor Peterson as Dorothy, Emily Anderson as Glinda, and Jillian Phillips as the Wicked Witch. Other stars include Dustin Haugle as the Scarecrow, Jeremy Steinmetz as the Tinman, Sam Williams as the Lion, and Monte (the real-live-dog) as Toto.  

“It honors the film while incorporating new and exciting elements. The special effects, including ‘fireballs,’ and the death-defying choreography simply cannot be missed.” – Lucas Risinger, director of CVTG’s upcoming Wizard of Oz

Audience members will enjoy hearing (and maybe even singing along to) all of their favorite tunes from the movie, from “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” to “If I only Had a Brain.”  In addition to all the familiar favorites, “The Jitterbug,” which was cut from the film, is a big part of the stage version of the musical. Keith Lorasch is the music director for The Wizard of Oz, and Kyle Manley will be directing the pit orchestra.   

Risinger believes audiences will love this stage adaptation of The Wizard of Oz because “it honors the film while incorporating new and exciting elements. Those familiar with Wicked [the popular Broadway musical about what happened in Oz according to the Wicked Witch of the West] will also enjoy this production. The special effects, including ‘fireballs,’ and the death-defying choreography simply cannot be missed.”

When asked if there will be flying monkeys, Risinger responds, “You will have to see the show.  All I can say is that our take on the monkeys is very unique and equally as terrifying as those in the film.”

Full of comedy, music, dance, and the story we all love so dearly, The Wizard of Oz is sure to be a hit with all ages.