(L to R) Gabe Rallo as the Tin Woodsman, Lily Baker as Dorothy, Callum Bresnahan as the Cowardly Lion, and Christian Tarry as the Scarecrow. Photo by Raelyn Toth.
“Let the joyous news be spread!” The Children’s Theatre of Southern Maryland is currently presenting “The Wizard of Oz” (featuring young performers ages 8-18) and what a wondrous show it is! This classic by L. Frank Baum (with music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg) has enchanted generations, and CTSM brings the beloved story to life with a splendid cast and incredibly imaginative visuals. Under the skilled leadership of Director Kristtany Ornelas Director and Music Director Neal Wentz, the production excels and their staging makes for an entertaining journey down the yellow brick road.
…a wondrous show…a splendid cast and incredibly imaginative visuals.
“The Wizard of Oz” is centered around young Dorothy Gale, who lives on a Kansas farm with her Uncle Henry and Aunt Em, along with her canine companion, Toto. Dorothy longs to escape her humdrum life, much to the dismay of her family. When an unexpected tornado sweeps through town, Dorothy is carried away to the fantastical land of Oz, where she encounters Glinda, the Good Witch, and the Munchkins. After Dorothy expresses her desire to return to Kansas, Glinda sends her to the Emerald City to seek help from the Wizard of Oz. Along the perilous journey, Dorothy meets the Scarecrow, Tin Woodsman, and Cowardly Lion, who join her in hopes of achieving their own dreams. Together, the friends face repeated interference from the Wicked Witch of the West, who is determined to thwart their mission.
In an outstanding performance as Dorothy, Lily Baker captured the heroine’s full emotional arc. She seamlessly transitioned from childlike wonder to terrifying fright, exuding confidence in all aspects of her delivery. In the legendary solo, “Over the Rainbow,” Baker’s beautiful mezzo voice shone through, and her acting through song was particularly compelling. She calmly handled a live dog (expertly trained by Abigail Dodson) while never breaking character, demonstrating impressive poise.
The talented trio of Christian Tarry (Scarecrow), Gabe Rallo (Tin Woodsman), and Callum Bresnahan (Cowardly Lion) was tremendously entertaining. All three performers were excellent vocalists, and their portrayals of these iconic roles were captivating. Tarry demonstrated phenomenal dance ability in “If I Only Had a Brain,” and he effectively embodied the Scarecrow’s rag doll physicality. As the Tin Woodsman, Rallo performed an energetic tap routine in “If I Only Had a Heart,” and his precise diction while speaking with his mouth closed was remarkable. Bresnahan was delightfully mellow as the Cowardly Lion, and he humorously depicted the character’s crybaby persona through his animated movements.
As the Wicked Witch of the West, Maddie McDermott uniquely personified this villain with both humor and menace. Her commanding stage presence was ideal for the part, and her brassy candor elicited hearty laughter. She also showcased a spectacular operatic voice while delivering an incantation, adding an unexpected musical dimension. Glinda was warmly portrayed by Gabby Dillenback, who presented dulcet vocals as a featured soloist in “Munchkinland Musical Sequence” and “Poppies.” As the Wizard, Cole Anderson spoke with crisp articulation, particularly when delivering the complex alliterative dialogue in the throne room scenes.
Stage Management Captain Zoe Silverman brilliantly led the stage crew through complicated set changes. These frequently required moving large scenery during precisely timed musical interludes, and the stage crew’s teamwork in this effort was commendable. They smoothly executed the transitions without missing a beat, always completing the rapid set changes on time. Kim Musser’s set design spanned locations ranging from a simple Kansas farmhouse to a glittering Emerald City, and her ingenious representation of the talking Oz head was a highlight. Led by Shelly Baker, The Costumes/Hair/Makeup team outfitted the actors in vivid fashions for the Oz sequences, creatively matching the setting’s otherworldly nature. Jenn Habbert’s high-octane choreography featured trampolining Munchkins, tap-dancing Jitterbugs, and acrobatic Poppies and Snowflakes. Her dances incorporated many styles, all precisely synchronized to the score.
Growing up in Baltimore County, “The Wizard of Oz” was the source of countless memories for me, namely visiting the annual Wizard of Oz displays at Valley View Farms and performing in a school production. Many audience members are likely to share similar connections to this timeless story. The Children’s Theatre of Southern Maryland production will fuel that nostalgia while offering an enjoyable and familiar theatrical experience. For the youngest attendees, this play is a wonderful introduction to this cherished tale, filled with eye-popping color, unforgettable songs, and an engaging presentation. In the words of Dorothy, “there’s no place like home,” and the joy that this show brings is sure to reside in your heart long after the final bow.
Running Time: Two hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission
“The Wizard of Oz” runs through April 25, 2026 at the St. John Vianney Family Life Center, 225 Holy Family Lane, Prince Frederick, MD 20678. Performances are Fridays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 1 and 6 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, go online.
