Encore Stage & Studio — widely known as theater “by the youth, for the youth” — presents L. Frank Baum’s beloved classic The Wizard of Oz, with music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. Director Jared Graham (assisted by Parker Nelson) guides an enthusiastic young ensemble and stage crew as they pursue and develop their artistic passions, with musical direction by Daniel “DJ” Smith. I’d encourage families to take their children to a show with an all-youth cast, not only for the enjoyment of the outing itself, but for the inspiration and encouragement that is fostered in children through watching their peers onstage.
Set Designer Kristen Jepperson uses projections (designed by David Moretti) and large hand-made set pieces to create the atmosphere, with drastic differences in colors and patterns between Oz and Kansas (I was particularly charmed by a large painted tumbleweed — clever!). Technical Director and lead Set Builder Sean Scalsky does a fine job, though there were a couple of elements that could use some fine-tuning. The somewhat muted projections could have been sharper, and the sound cues were a bit abrupt, but perfection shouldn’t be expected in community theater, and they served their purposes well.
Dorothy Gale (Anabelle Ayers Caballero) lives on a simple farm in Kansas with her aunt, uncle, and her dog, Toto (Robert Potter). Her life is a dreary one, and she longs for an adventure in the number “Over the Rainbow.” However, when a tornado sweeps up her home and crash-lands her in a new and magical world, she fast realizes that she only wants to go home, despite her warm welcome by the Munchkins. Thanks to Choreographer Brian Wilson, the ensemble number “Munchkinland” is particularly fun and memorable, with bright colors and bold patterns making up the Munchkins’ wardrobe by Costumer Debra Leonard. When the good witch Glinda (Emily Moser) sends Dorothy on her voyage to seek guidance from The Wizard of Oz, she finds some travel companions along the way. Jazz Buitrago does a great job as the goofy, friendly Scarecrow, who warbles around the stage like a rag doll and decides to ask the Wizard for a brain. Spencer Tilock is the Tin Man, who laments his lack of a heart, and Hamad Aljibreen rounds out their trio as the cowardly Lion, who wishes for courage. Aljibreen’s performance stands out as particularly vibrant, especially with his impressive delivery of the Lion’s affected accent.
However, Dorothy has made a huge enemy upon her arrival — the Wicked Witch of the West, played by Evet Tran, who I’ll admit becomes an audience favorite with her high energy and maniacal cackle. The Witch seeks vengeance after Dorothy’s house crushed her equally evil sister, but is mainly after the magical ruby slippers that Glinda gifted Dorothy before her journey, which would make her even more powerful. The team has to work together to overcome several challenges that she throws at them, including a fun number called “Jitterbug,” when the witch sends a team of insects that bespell the travelers to dance uncontrollably. Once they arrive in Emerald City and meet the Wizard himself (Logan Moore), a whole new set of trials and tribulations await them.
Yes, there are some fumbled line deliveries, and the performances and vocals could use some polishing, but they all do a fine job considering the fact that these are community child actors. I see this as a testament to good, solid direction, and the result of a respectable company that nurtures its students’ potential. Enjoying live theater as a family is great, but there’s a particular magic I’ve found when children experience their fellows perform onstage. I enjoyed experiencing an impressive young cast who work so well together. Encore Stage & Studio’s production of The Wizard of Oz is a solid bet for family entertainment!
Running Time: One hour and 35 minutes, including one 15-minute intermission.
The Wizard of Oz plays through June 8, 2025, presented by Encore Stage & Studio performing at The Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre — 125 South Old Glebe Road, Arlington, VA. Purchase tickets at the door or online. Tickets are $15 for adults; $12 for children, students, military, and seniors (includes service fees). Group rate is $10 per ticket for a group of 10 or more.
Recommended for ages 4 and older.