Celebrate 80th anniversary of ‘Wizard of Oz’ at Music Box Dinner Playhouse in Swoyersville June 14-30
From a press release:
The Music Box Dinner Playhouse in Swoyersville will present the timeless classic “The Wizard of Oz” beginning Friday, June 14 and running three weekends through Sunday, June 30 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the film.
Based on the book by L. Frank Baum with music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg, this musical production takes audience members on a whirlwind trip from Kansas, over the rainbow to Oz, and back again. Along the way, a series of colorful characters emerge, making the return trip to Kansas just a bit sad. Dana Feigenblatt is the director and Kimberly Johnson is music director.
Ashley Bohn of Clarks Summit plays Dorothy Gale.
“It’s incredible to be able to play this iconic role,” Bohn said. “I have loved Judy Garland since I have been very young, and this has always been a dream role of mine. My goal is to hold tight to the classic character everyone knows and loves while adding a dash of my own charisma.”
Bohn is part of a cast of roughly 30 who bring the show to life. Jimmy Williams, who plays the Cowardly Lion, also describes the part as a “dream role.”
“My mother would always ask me to impersonate the Cowardly Lion,” he said. “It would always make her smile.”
The Dunmore resident said one of his favorite parts of the show is the quick change from lion to farmhand. Just as in the movie, some of the Oz characters are played by Dorothy’s Kansas friends.
Carol Warholak Sweeney of Kingston Township plays the equally iconic Wicked Witch.
“It’s a thrill and an honor to portray such a well-known character,” Warholak Sweeney said. “The first time I saw myself in full makeup, I got scared.
“What I like most about this version is that she has a bit of a dry sense of humor. She is more human, and we are allowed to see some of her flaws and what makes her who she is.”
Bohn said the cast and production team are staying true to the beloved 1939 film while adding new energy through the live performances.
“We are keeping audience involved so they feel like they are right along for the journey to Oz with us,” Bohn said. “It is a very strong and talented cast who have been working diligently to recreate this classic masterpiece for a night of family fun and entertainment!”
“The Wizard of Oz” opens at 8 p.m. on Friday, June 14 and continues on June 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, and 30. Friday and Saturday night shows will be held at 8 p.m.; Sunday matinee performances will be held at 3 p.m. For all shows, audience members have the option of purchasing a dinner and show ticket or a “show only” ticket.
Doors at the Music Box (196 Hughes St., Swoyersville) open at 6 p.m., and the meal begins at 6:30 p.m. For matinees, doors open at 1 p.m., with the meal beginning at 1:30 p.m. Dinner tickets must be purchased in advance.
“Show only” tickets are $20, while the buffet dinner with show tickets are $38. For those 12 and younger, the Music Box is also offering a children’s meal for $20 that features a choice of grilled cheese, cheeseburger. or chicken tenders with French fries or a $25 for a full buffet meal.
All tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at 570-283-2195 or e-mailing reservations@musicbox.org. Additional information is available at musicbox.org.
