There are very few people alive who don’t know the story of the Wizard of Oz. They know all the highlights, Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tinman, The Cowardly Lion, The Wicked Witch, The Munchkins, and all the other hallmarks of one of the most memorable family films of all time. UpStage Artists would like to give your children to bring the story of Dorothy and friends to life in their first children’s production, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.”
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz has been adapted from the original novel by L. Frank Baum by award winning writer, playwright, and UpStage Artist Board member, John Cusumano. The adaptation goes back to the original source novel and bring elements to the stage that were not a part of the movie we all know and love.
Children get a variety of benefits from learning to perform. Children in theater tend to learn reading comprehension, increase their self-confidence, improve their communication skills, be more tolerant of others and other’s ideas, and it gives them a greater sense of self expression. These are all lifelong skills that they will gain.
UpStage Artists is founded on the principle that theater is for anyone who wants to try, and this is what they hope to bring to their first children’s show. They are looking to cast children ages 6 to 16 in a variety of roles. This adaptation is not a musical, so they don’t have to worry about how good their singing voice is. UpStage Artists is looking for children who want to have fun, be creative, and learn some new skills this summer.
Auditions will be held on Saturday May 21 and Sunday May 22 at 2 pm at Emmanuel United Methodist Church (11416 Cedar Lane, Beltsville, MD 20705). Rehearsals will begin on June 6th and run Monday, Thursday and Friday evenings beginning at 7 pm and running no later than 9 pm. Show dates are July 22, 23, 29, 30 at 7:00 pm and July 24 and 31 at 2 pm. If your child is interested in auditioning, please go to www.upstageartists.com/auditons and fill out the form. This is a great chance for children to have fun and be creative this summer. UpStage Artists hopes to see you there!