The Wizard Of Oz

The Dome, Brighton

Saturday, December 28

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Many people are familiar with The Wizard Of Oz and its well-loved characters – Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tinman and the Lion – but most may be surprised to see them brought to life solely through the medium of dance.

However in this classical production from Ballet Theatre UK, infused with big performances and traditional costumes, the narrative was easy to follow and a joy to behold.

The flawless dancers were elegant and vivid throughout this two act, full-length adaptation of L Frank Baum’s 1900 book which was made in to the famous technicolour film of 1939.

Firstly, we were introduced to Dorothy, Toto and the farm hands, in Kansas, dancing with their brooms, as well as to the “elderly” aunt and uncle, disguising their peak physique with a mask of white hair and crooked backs.

The first of a few charming backdrops depicted the rural scenery.

The house then effortlessly shot across the stage as the tornado arrived to dramatic music and smoke, before Dorothy reappeared in the Land of Oz to the delightful dancing of the Good Witch along the Yellow Brick Road.

This child-friendly ballet was set to a classical score which amplified the tension and excitement of the production and perfectly complemented the striking performances of the dancers.

The different personalities of the main characters shone through from the cowardly Lion to the darkly charming Wicked Witch of the West, who performed a gripping solo dance with her broomstick.

The costumes were dazzling with many dancers having numerous dress changes, from bright yellows, to reds to greens reflecting their changing roles.

The set designs were also exquisite and evocative of the film, from the green Emerald City, to the lanterns of the witch’s castle and the giant mechanical face operated by the Wizard.

With such varied choreography it was a thrilling ballet from a talented cast, before Dorothy’s red slippers eventually sent her back home.

Tania Deaville