Spring Musical Set to Debut
Since the original was published in 1900, L. Frank Baum’s book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” has inspired theatrical adaptations and served as the source of countless retellings, from “The Wiz” to “Wicked.” But it is the 1939 film version – legendary for, among many things, its inimitable cast, its unforgettable score by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg, and its innovative use of “glorious” Technicolor and special effects – that endures as the Yellow Brick Road gold standard. Since this classic movie first delighted children and grownups on the silver screen back in 1939, L. Frank Baum’s imaginative fantasy has been a continual favorite. Whether on film, in print or live on stage, as it is here, this story, with its fanciful elements and an inspiring lesson about friendship, is one of the most beloved in children’s literature.
So it is no small compliment to say that the Roca Theater production of the musical (in John Kane’s Royal Shakespeare Company adaptation) not only lives up to that film in countless ways. But what’s more, director Francisco Padura and his sensational team of actors magically pay homage to the movie classic’s emotional richness, while at the same time incorporating some of the newest tricks of technology. The result, on all counts, is a Broadway-worthy show of grand scale and exceptional imagination – a production that spins onto the stage with the force of the cyclone (even if some insist the proper term is tornado) that knocks out Kansas farm girl Dorothy Gale just long enough for her to take a scary but fantastical journey to the Land of Oz and Emerald City. There is no need to further recount the story – it has been this country’s defining fairy tale for more than a century – featured here are all the wonderful, lovable characters setting off on an adventure that has become familiar the world over. The road story is about how real friends help, comfort and support each other, as well as share the thrill of discovering new places. Ultimately, however, we’re reminded that, in the end, there really is no place like home.
When all the world is a hopeless jumble, it is good to know that some things can always be counted upon to help you make your dreams come true. The time-honored story of “The Wizard of Oz” live on stage is an experience for young and old of all ages which makes the Roca production perfect family fare. A big thank you to the director for taking on this amazing production and bringing it to life. Thank you to Rev. Guillermo Garcia-Tuñon, S.J. and Mr. Jose Roca for your leadership and your ongoing support in pursuing the goal of presenting quality theater at Belen Jesuit.
The spring musical, "The Wizard of Oz" will debut in the Roca Theater on Friday, February 28 at 7:30 p.m. There will be seven performances in all, ending on March 7. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.belenjesuit.org/rocatheater. General admission is $17 presale or $20 at the door.
BELEN JESUIT PREPARATORY SCHOOL
500 SW 127th Avenue, Miami, FL 33184
phone: 305.223.8600 | fax: 305.227.2565 | email: webmaster@belenjesuit.org
500 SW 127th Avenue, Miami, FL 33184
phone: 305.223.8600 | fax: 305.227.2565 | email: webmaster@belenjesuit.org
Belen Jesuit Preparatory School was founded in 1854 in Havana, Cuba by Queen Isabel II of Spain. The task of educating students was assigned to the priests and brothers of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), whose teaching tradition is synonymous with academic excellence and spiritual discipline. In 1961, the new political regime of Cuba confiscated the School property and expelled the Jesuit faculty. The School was re-established in Miami the same year, and over the next decade, continued to grow. Today, Belen Jesuit sits on a 30-acre site in western Dade County, only minutes away from downtown Miami.