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tickets gifted for review

We’re off to see the wizard at Nottingham Theatre Royal, and there’s something about The Wizard of Oz that is an instant mood booster. It’s like a comfort show. Pretty and fun songs, a belter with Over The Rainbow, and loveable characters and an escape from reality. Toto, we’re not in Kansas anymore… we’re in Nottingham until 13th April!

With a stripped back staging which is heavy on the projections, I actually quite enjoyed this cinema come theatre experience. The show has been breathed a bit of fresh air with some modernisation, and some minor tweaks to keep the show current and appealing as something new. I found Oz being held under a dictatorship, and feeling much more like Times Square with references to shows clever and engaging. I also really enjoyed the addition of the Wizard’s lair, with smart equipment. Though, Glinda riding a motorbike coming across as more Barbie than The Good Witch to be a let-down, especially when Glinda, riding a motorbike, declares to Dorothy that she wouldn’t know how to get home as she… usually flies?

The show opens with a much more dismal Kansas. and goosebumps are guaranteed as Aviva Tulley steps steps forward to perform ‘Nobody Understands Me, Over the Rainbow‘. She fully deserved her standing ovation and roar of applause for that rendition alone.

Benjamin Yates, Femi Akinfolarin and Nic Greenshields as The Scarecrow, The Tin Man and The Lion respectively were a real performance highlight. They brought a real comfort to the much loved characters, bringing charm, comic and great chemistry. Femi Akinfolarin’s performance of being set free was impeccable timing wise and was truly commendable. I was always drawn to Benjamin Yates on stage who seemed to draw attention with a wonderful and comical presence. I also thought Abigail Matthew‘s puppeteering Toto was also wonderful. Her reactions to the cast, especially in Over The Rainbow was lovely. She really brought the dog mannerisms and vocals to life.

It was The Vivienne who was an absolute star of a villain for me. She has the most iconic cackle, and when she steps out into the audience, phew! She is incredible as Wicked Witch of the West.

The Wizard of Oz is such a timeless show and always one that makes you feel good throughout. This new take breathes some new life onto the show to make it feel new, whilst still being that same classic story we know and love. Follow the yellow brick road to Theatre Royal until April 13th.