For a few weeks now, a crew of nearly 70 kids has been rehearsing diligently in preparation for the LJCC Theater’s March performances of The Wizard of Oz here at The J.
“It has been such a joy to work with this cast,” says Alie B. Gorrie, director of the production. “The young actors are so eager and filled with joy. I can hardly wait for them to share that joy with audiences.”
Thanks to the generosity of donors, The J is able to offer its youth theater program for only a minimal charge while accepting all participants regardless of ability.
Tickets are on sale now for next month’s three public performances: Thursday, March 6, 6 p.m.; Saturday, March 8, 7 p.m.; Sunday, March 9, noon. We are also selling t-shirts and sponsorship opportunities, which together will help us continue to offer the program at minimal cost for participants.
“You don’t want to miss this,” Alie says. “Every child has a moment to shine on stage.”
She’s grateful to The J and her Oz team along with the herculean efforts of parent volunteers. “Putting on a musical with so many kids is a big task,” she says.
A storied theatrical past
The Oz production follows in the footsteps of LJCC Theater’s most recent productions of The Velveteen Rabbit, Xanadu Jr., and Annie Jr., which together continue The J’s storied theater legacy (remember 2023 Oscar winner Daniel Scheinert? Read about his appearances on stage here along with some of the long history theater at The J).
In addition, read about some Jewish ties to The Wizard of Oz.