Act One

We open on Uncle Henry and Aunt Em's Kansas farm where the wind has already begun to blow. Dorothy isn't helping with chores like she should, and even though Aunt Em isn't happy about it, she lets Dorothy know that she's loved in the opening ballad, "The Feeling We Once Had."

The tornado hits the farm and carries the house to the Land of Oz where it lands on Evvamene, the Wicked Witch of the East. Dorothy meets the Munchkins, who introduce her to Addaperle, the Good Witch of the North. Addaperle advises Dorothy to talk to the Wiz in the first showstopper, "He's the Wiz." She gives Dorothy the silver slippers from Evvamene's feet and tells Dorothy not to remove the shoes under any circumstances until she reaches home. As the Munchkins leave Dorothy to her journey down the yellow brick road, Dorothy reveals her apprehension in "Soon As I Get Home."

A short way down the road Dorothy encounters her first friend, the Scarecrow. She helps him down from his pole and he explains, "I Was Born on the Day Before Yesterday." Dorothy wants to help him in his search for brains, so they decide to travel together. The journey toward the great Emerald City begins as they "Ease on Down the Road." They haven't traveled far when they come across the Tinman, rusted stiff and in need of help. They ask what they can do and the Tinman instructs them in "Slide Some Oil to Me." Because he is in need of a heart, they, too, decide to travel together to Emerald City. But, of course, they haven't gotten far when a menacing roar signals the approach of the Lion. He introduces himself in "Mean Ole Lion." And, because the Lion is lacking courage, the foursome is complete as they begin their journey together to Emerald City.

As the four friends follow the yellow brick road, they are passed by the Strangers, harbingers for the Kalidahs, evil bird-like creatures, bent on disrupting the group and grabbing Dorothy's silver slippers. The four friends survive the attack and Dorothy soothes the Lion's fears in "Be a Lion." Continuing their journey, the friends finally get their first glimpse of Emerald City from a field of poppies, the one place they were warned not to go. The Lion, feeling the narcotic effect of the poppies, is arrested by field mice and hauled away in a paddy wagon.

Unable to help, the three remaining friends continue to Emerald City where they meet up with the Lion at the gates of the city. The reunited friends enter the gates and encounter the bizarre citizens of Emerald City. They make their way to the throne room of the Wiz where he greets them with "So You Wanted to Meet the Wizard." The Wiz asks what they want from him. Dorothy wants to get back home, the Lion wants some courage, the Scarecrow wants some brains and, in a touching ballad, the Tinman expresses his desire for a heart in "What I Would Do If I Could Feel." The end of Act One comes when the Wiz agrees to supply each of the friends with their desire IF they kill Evillene, the Wicked Witch of the West.

Act Two

The second act opens in the castle of the Wicked Witch of the West as Evillene introduces herself with "Don't Nobody Bring Me No Bad News." We meet the groveling Winkies, Evillene's slaves, taking care of her every demand. A messenger arrives to tell Evillene that Dorothy and her friends are still on their way to the castle and that the Kalidahs weren't able to take away the one thing Evillene wants most, the sliver slippers. In her fury, Evillene summons the leader of the Winged Monkeys and assigns him an his henchmen to snatch the four friends and bring them to the castle; the friends then are captured by the flying monkeys.

Back in the evil castle where the chief occupation is removing all water one bucket-full at a time, the Lion and Dorothy find one another. Evillene comes in to make Dorothy give her the silver slippers and sees them together. The Lion protects Dorothy from the Witch by standing up to her and Dorothy protects the Lion by throwing a bucket of water on the Witch. And, of course, the Wicked Witch of the West melts into nothingness. The Winkies and the four friends celebrate with "Everybody Rejoice (Brand New Day)."

The friends head back to the palace of the Wiz to claim their prizes only to find him, not as a powerful wizard, but as a simple, boastful man. The four friends express their anger over being fooled in "Who Do You Think You Are?" The Wiz explains where he's from and how he got to Emerald City, then sings "Believe in Yourself" before giving the Scarecrow his brains, the Tinman his heart and the Lion some courage. But he cannot help Dorothy get back to Kansas until the Scarecrow thinks of using the same hot air balloon the wizard used to get to Oz.

At the fairgrounds, the hot-air balloon is filled and ready for fight. The wizard plans to take Dorothy back himself after saying goodbye to the loyal people of Emerald City in "Y'All Got It?" As Dorothy begins her good-byes to her friends, the wizard steps into the balloon basket and immediately flies into the sky, leaving Dorothy behind. At that moment Addaperle, the Good Witch of the North, appears. Wanting to help Dorothy, Addaperle magically calls upon her sister, Glinda, the Good Witch of the South, who also appears. Glinda helps Dorothy feel better with "A Rested Body," then reveals that the silver slippers will take Dorothy home if she'll just "Believe in Yourself." When the witches leave, Dorothy says goodbye to her friends in "Home," clicks her heels three times and--well, you know the rest.

Director's Notes by Director Al Franklin

In 1972 a New York disc jockey had an idea. Ken Harper wanted to take Frank Baum's classic novel, The Wizard of Oz, written at the turn of the century and irrevocably associated with the 1939 Judy Garland movie, and turn it into a popular black musical comedy. Harper pitched the idea to 20^th Century Fox who liked it and invited Harper to the west coast to present the idea. Harper already had the book written by William Brown and thirteen original songs written by Charlie Smalls. The musical movement known as 'Motown' was at its peak of popularity at the time and 20^th Century Fox jumped in with both feet. 20^th Century Fox purchased the first option to film rights, publishing rights and album rights to THE WIZ. Once the show was cast and rehearsed, the seven weeks of out-of-town tryouts were filled with disasters, nearly closing the show before it ever got to New York. Harper, always thinking, hired theatrical genius Geoffrey Holder as costume designer and director to bring the show into the big apple for the 1974-75 season.

During previews in New York, the show was losing money every week. There were no advance sales, the front money from 20^th Century Fox was gone and things looked so bad that the closing notice was posted backstage on opening night. Reviews after opening night were reported by THE WIZ as "mixed." But in fact, the New York Times and the New York Post raked the show over the coals knocking the concept, the direction, the sets and costumes, the music and the actors themselves. But during the preview performances, the press agents for the show were filling unsold seats with New York deejays, talent coordinators from radio and TV, newspaper reporters and freelance feature writers. And, along with audiences, they liked the show. Even though many of the daily newspapers gave the show negative reviews, the weekly papers raved. Harper went to back to 20^th Century Fox and asked for more financial support, fearing the worst. But 20^th Century Fox gave the green light for another month of performances. This was the opportunity Harper needed.

The press agents for THE WIZ now contacted all the media people who'd seen the show during previews and asked for coverage. They also began trading seats for airtime on both radio and TV. Word of mouth began to build, especially in the black community where some felt that the white press hadn't given the show a fair chance. Even Stephanie Mills' mother began using her church network to inform people about the show. And tickets began to sell. And sell. The Saturday matinee following opening night was the first sell-out performance. 20^th Century Fox handed over another advance toward a new ad campaign. Ken Harper shot a commercial using the theme song, "Ease On Down The Road," and within two weeks had reached 95% of the households in New York during primetime 7.7 times. The show now was grossing twice its expenses and performances were all selling out.

In 1975 THE WIZ won seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Score, Best Director and Best Choreography. The production ran successfully for five years, made a star of Stephanie Mills (only 16 when she started) and made Ken Harper a wealthy man.

Thank you for supporting the work we do here in Fort Wayne at the Civic Theatre. For 70 years we've been bringing you the best of Broadway and theatre from all over the world. We want it to be exciting, stimulating, educational and entertaining. And we want you to be a part of it. See you next time.

CAST BIOGRAPHIES

Lisa McDavid (Dorothy) is excited to play the role of Dorothy again, having originally played her in Youngstown, Ohio. Lisa was involved in a number of shows in Youngstown including HUCK FINN, LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, DREAMGIRLS, WEST SIDE STORY and JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT. Lisa currently is working toward her master's degree in clinical psychology.

Tony McCarrol (Scarecrow) is appearing in his third produce the Civic Theatre. His other credits include ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST and Two TRAINS RUNNING. As an alumnus, he d to be part of the Howard University tradition of perseverance and excellence. He would like to thank his family and for their support.

Dwight Wilson (Tinman) last was seen in Two TRAINS RUNNING and has appeared in Civic Theatre productions of JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, FENCES and THE NERD. Dwight's spirituality and family are the two most important things in his life, with theatre being a close third. P.S. Great job Dyeaka! I love you!

Gordon L. Crawford (Lion) once again returns to the Civic stage after a lengthy hiatus. It's about time! He is elated to recreate a role he has tackled before, not only with such a great new cast, but, in the first show he has done with his daughter Briona. He would like to thank his family, friends and a host of students for their undying support.

Peggy S. Lattimore (Addaperle) is making her theatrical debut and credits her involvement in THE WIZ to a nudge from Phillip Colglazier during the TRF Majic 95.1 Karaoke Contest. Her husband and three daughters encouraged her to audition. They have helped her memorize her lines and played her back-up singers at home and have helped to make THE WIZ a truly excellent experience.

Tamela Woods (Evillene) who is making her theatrical debut, is a native of Greenville, Mississippi, and is the youngest of four sisters and two brothers. She sends her love to her wonderful family and especially to her daughter, Jarnae Shanice Woods. She would like to dedicate her first show to the late Eddie Hinds and Mrs. Hattie Hinds.

DiAnne B. Shaw (Aunt Em/Glinda) is thrilled to be making her Civic Theatre debut as Glinda/Aunt Fm. She has previously worked on films like Groundhog Day and Home Alone and is looking forward to working on the Civic stage. DiAnne and her husband Larry own the Fort Myers McDonald's at Route 30 and Coliseum. She thanks her son Jarred and husband for helping her to "have it all!"

Malcolm D. Walker (The Wiz) is excited to be back on the Civic stage after having appeared in THE SECRET GARDEN as Lt. Wright. He also has won two Anthony awards for his work in THE MUSIC MAN and THE KING AND I. Malcolm hopes the cast has enjoyed the experience as much as he has and looks forward to the audience embracing "our jammin' production."

Steven Wallace (Lord High Underling) is a previous Civic performer who joins us again after a lengthy hiatus. He last was seen in OF MICE AND MEN In 1982 and in A RAISIN IN THE SUN and YOU CAN'T TAKE IT WITH YOU at Civic. He is a 1979 Purdue graduate, where he was active in PIT productions at IPFW.

Keristen Baker (Uncle Henry/Gatekeeper) is currently a freshman at IPFW and is making his Civic Theatre debut. Active in theatre at Wayne high school, he appeared in their productions of THE GOOD TIMES ARE KILLING US and THE WIZ. Next year he plans to pursue an acting and singing career in Atlanta.

Jessica Brinkerhoff (Player) is making her Civic debut, but she is no stranger to the theatre. She has been active at Arena Dinner Theatre, most recently in CABARET, BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS and No sex PLEASE WE'RE BRITISH. She has also worked backstage as an assistant costume designer and prop supervisor.

Kathy Elaine Conely (Player) is a wife and mother and teaches fifth grade at Abbett Elementary School. She has written and directed skits for her church youth group and classroom. She and her daughter, Margaret, have a genuine love of the arts and both are making their Civic Theatre debut.

James Anderson (Player) is making his Civic Theatre debut. He has been active in theatre at Memorial Park Middle School and has studied modern dance with Garth Pagan. Productions at Memorial Park include DAMN YANKEES (his favorite), LITTLE MARY SUNSHINE and OLIVER. He would like to thank his mom and family for their support.

Margaret Conely (Player) is a sophomore at Harding High School where she has appeared in RUMORS and the musical GREASE, in her favorite role--Frenchy. She is most fond of THE WIZARD OF OZ and has used selections from it for national pageant competitions.

Artie Culp (Player) last was seen in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at the Civic and thanks her husband Mike for his support and encouragement. She has taught vocal music for 26 years and directed adult and children's church choirs. She is a former member of the Philharmonic Chorus.

Brandon Rutten (Player) is new to Fort Wayne by way of Souix Falls, South Dakota, and is making his Civic Theatre debut. Active in gymnastics, he has also taken his turn on stage in THE OUTSIDERS and HELLO DOLLY.

Dyeaka Wilson (Player) a sophomore at South Side High School, is not only making her Civic Theatre debut, but her theatrical debut as well. She is very excited to be in this production and hopes to continue the trend. She is especially looking forward to working with her father, Dwight, in the show.

Maurice Turner (Player) is a graduate of South Side High School and was a lead performer in their show choir. He also performed in WEST SIDE STORY and PIPPIN while at South Side. He recently worked on HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING this summer at IPFW.

Kontrell Tyler (Player) is a student at Wayne High School and performs in their choir. He was in their production of THE WIZ and really enjoys this musical. He plans to audition for more Civic productions in the future.

Kathryn Audrey Eid (Player) is a junior at Homestead High School where she is active in show choir and Key Club. She has been in several Youtheatre productions including GINGER BREAD HOUSE IN THE FOREST, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER and THE VELVETEEN RABBIT.

Patricia Pruitt (Player) is a fourth grade teacher who has been bitten by the theatre bug. Patricia was seen in GUYS AND DOLLS at the Civic Theatre. She has a wonderful son, Casey, who encourages her to follow her dreams

Richard Munoz (Player) is new to Fort Wayne by way of Atlanta and has worked in professional and non-professional theatre and television for eight years. He is excited to investigate the opportunities available in the local theatre scene

Jacquelyne Lampley (Player) is making her Civic debut. She works for Fort Wayne Newspapers and has three children, one in college. Performing in THE WIZ fits right in with her interests in vocal music and she always tries to give the world a smile.

Tamara Drew (Player) has been a busy young actress, having just finished her role as Rosalie in THE CHILDREN'S HOUR at the Civic. A sophomore at Bishop Luers, Tamara is on the student council and a member of the Luers show choir. She thanks her parents for their patience and support.

Tasha Evans (Singer) is a freshman at South Side High School and she is a member of Good Hope Church. Her favorite hobbies include singing, drawing and playing the piano. She would like to thank her parents, Derek and Charlotte, for their love and support.

Roblyn Rene Sligh (Singer) is a student at Taylor University where she will graduate and further her studies in Divinity and Counseling. Roblyn is a native of Gary, Indiana, and has been involved in acting, singing and performance since the age of two.

Shanon M. Reeves (Singer) is currently a sophomore at Taylor University and joins us from Lake Station, Indiana. At Taylor she is involved in M.A.C. as president, Chapel Committee and the Gospel Choir. She is making her Civic Theatre debut.

Georgia Hirsty (Player) is in eighth grade at Blackhawk and would like to thank Chris Murphy for his great plays and direction at Blackhawk. She would like to thank Kati Latter for being her theatrical coconspirator. Thanks guys, I love ya!

Shayla Anderson (Player) is in fourth grade at Croninger Elementary, where she enjoys acting and singing and is an A+ student. A true people lover, Shayla was most recently in a commercial for Newschannel 15.

Leah Carter (Player) is in eighth grade at Blackhawk. She has appeared in SCHOOL DAZE at Snider High School and in A CHRISTMAS STORY at St. John's. She loves singing and dancing and having fun.

Kaitlin Fumarolo (Player) is in eighth grade at Summit Middle School and she enjoys theatre and singing. She has appeared in a number of productions including THE WIZARD OF OZ and 7`HE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE at Fort Wayne Youtheatre.

Briona L. Crawford (Player) is making her theatrical debut in the same cast as her father, Gordon, and they couldn't be happier. Briona was featured in FROST ILLUSTRATED at eight months old as a first runner up in America's Sweetheart national beauty and talent pageant. She would like to thank her family and friends, especially her mother, Tracy L. Bronaugh-Crawford.

SaSundra Tadsen (Player) is a home-taught fifth grader who loves to read mysteries. She has been involved in TV commercials and print ads since she was four and now enjoys being a part of theatre. She hopes to have her own production company some day.

Kelley Lampley (Player) who is making her Civic Theatre debut, is enjoying working with her mother in this production of THE WIZ. An eighth grade student at Woodside Middle School, she enjoys cheerleading, ballet and jewelry making

Colleen Knox (Player) is in fifth grade at Irwin Elementary School. She likes swimming and riding her horse, Flank. She has been on stage previously in THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE for the Fort Wayne Youtheatre.

Eunice Wadewitz (Musical Director) again finds herself in the middle of another busy season as the music director for Civic's CAMELOT, THE WIZ, PETER PAN and RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN: A CELEBRATION. Eunice has been involved in more than 30 shows at the Civic Theatre and has enjoyed being the resident music director for the past three seasons. Eunice is also director of music ministries at Forest Park Methodist Church.

Abigail Ehinger (Choreographer) last was seen as Adelaide in GUYS AND DOLLS at the Civic Theatre, for which she won an Anthony Award. Other roles include Mrs. Anna in THE KING AND I and Cinderella. She has performed in a variety of major roles and choreographed more than 70 musicals in her career. She would like to thank M.M.M. and all her Vera Bradley pals for their support.

Nan Durant (Make-Up Designer) designed and taught the actors how to apply the fantastic make-up techniques you see in the show. Nan has always loved doing character make-up and most recently appeared as Mrs. Tilford, the elderly grandmother in THE CHILDREN'S HOUR. She would like to thank her make-up students, Gordon, Tony and Dwight, for being so wonderful to work with.

Joyce Van Ry (Stage Manager) is back for another season on Civic's stage management team after a busy year, working on five shows last season. She started as a stage manager in 1989 after she retired from teaching. She is also the happy and grateful recipient of two Technical Anthony Award statuettes, presented to her in 1990 and 1998. She is very happy to be a part of this wonderful production with such a talented and enthusiastic cast.

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