The Drama Club at Kings County Academy is presenting The Wizard of Oz... just not the way you remember it.
Students have been rehearsing The Wizard of Oz: The Deleted Scene since the beginning of the school year, and will present the play June 13 and 14 at KCA.
Director Davina Melanson says the play tells a different story than the famous movie.
“It's what would have happened if Dorothy didn't take the yellow brick road, and how these characters would be affected. It brings in a lot of the different fairy tale characters as well. You'll see guest appearances by Hansel and Gretel, Jack and Jill, and Little Red Riding Hood.”
Melanson says some of the students, from Grade 6 to 8 at KCA, have been involved in theatre before through Centre Stage, but others are experiencing performing for the first time.
“We try to target a variety of different kids because we want those not experienced to be able to experience the thrill of drama, and I really believe that drama gives them a lot of confidence that they may not otherwise get,” she explained.
“I like choosing scripts with a lot of people in them, so they can all get a chance to be on stage and have their moment.”
Quinn Kinsman plays Dorothy. The Grade 8 student was a part of the annual play last year, but says taking on the lead role has been pretty overwhelming.
“There's a lot of work and a lot of lines,” says Kinsmen. “But I've got a great family that helped me with my lines, and some friends as well, so it's been good.”
Grade 8 student Tayah Strong plays Glinda the Good. She's a theatre veteran who has simplified her role for this year's play.
“I was in the performance at the school last year; we did Knights of the Round Table. I had seven characters to play in small roles. It's good having one full role this year,” she says.
Madeline Umlaw is playing the Wicked Witch of the West. The Grade 6 student is participating in drama for the first time, and enjoying it.
“I've always been comfortable with like singing and acting in front of people. I've never had stage fright or anything. So, I thought I'd try it, and I like it.”
The Drama Club will perform the play for the KCA students June 13 in the morning. Performances open to the public are in the evenings of June 13 and 14 at KCA, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Admission is a freewill offering.