The Wizard of Oz (RSC version)

Musical

Writers: John Kane Herbert Stothart Harold Arlen E.Y. "Yip" Harburg

Overview

Show Information

Book
Based on the Play/Book/Film
The Wizard of Oz
Category
Musical
Number of Acts
2
First Produced
1987
Genres
Fairy Tale/Fantasy
Settings
Contemporary, Fantasy/Imaginary, Multiple Settings
Time & Place
1930s, Uncle Henry and Aunt Em's farm in Kansas, the magical land of Oz
Cast Size
large
Orchestra Size
Large
Dancing
Some Dance
Ideal for
College/University, Community Theatre, Diverse Cast, Elementary School, Ensemble Cast, High School, Large Cast, Middle School, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Star Vehicle Female
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes early teen, late teen, adult, child, young adult, mature adult, elderly characters

Synopsis

L. Frank Baum’s classic novel comes to life in The Wizard of Oz. This faithful adaptation by the Royal Shakespeare Company features all the most beloved songs and moments from the 1939 classic film, brought to life onstage. Young Dorothy Gale is swept away by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the magical land of Oz. There, she encounters a host of whimsical characters: good witches, bad witches, animals that talk, scarecrows that walk, and things magical to behold. To find her way home, she must journey along the Yellow Brick Road to see the mysterious and all-powerful Wizard in Emerald City. Along the way, she makes new friends, but must also brave many dangers, including the Wicked Witch of the West, who will stop at nothing to get her hands on Dorothy’s magical ruby slippers. To make it home safely, Dorothy must learn an important lesson: there’s no place like home.

Lead Characters


The Wizard of Oz (RSC version) guide sections