One of “the most watched films in the world” celebrates its 80th anniversary this year and The Algarveans Experimental Theatre Group is commemorating the occasion by presenting ‘The Wizard of Oz’ on stage this week in Lagoa.
In this family classic, young Dorothy Gale is a Kansas farm girl who dreams of a land “somewhere over the rainbow”.
A tornado transports Dorothy and her dog, Toto, to a bright and magical world unlike anything she has ever seen before. There, she makes a mortal enemy of the Wicked Witch of the West. In the Land of Oz, she befriends a scarecrow in need of a brain, a tin man missing a heart and a cowardly lion who lacks courage. With her new friends, she sets off on a journey down the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City. There they beseech the all-powerful Wizard of Oz for his help to return her home and grant her friends their wishes.
This is the first musical in six years for The Algarveans and rehearsals have been underway since July. Director Karen Barroso leads a cast of more than 30 actors from all over the Algarve. Choreographer Shelley “Dança” Kenny works with dancers to the magical melodies while the production crew are creating whimsical sets and colourful costumes.
The Algarveans have always encouraged inclusivity and participation from the local community and there are many new members – young and old – in this cast. The group boasts a multi-lingual and multi-cultural membership, although all productions are performed in English. If you would like to tread the boards or stretch your creativity by helping with set, costumes or backstage, visit their wesbite – www.thealgarveans.com
‘The Wizard of Oz’ will be performed in English at the 300-seat Carlos do Carmo Auditorium in Lagoa on November 21, 22, and 23 at 7.45 pm and also November 23 at 2pm. Tickets at €10 are available at all Worten and Fnac stores as well as the Auditorium box office, or online at www.ticketline.pt
