‘The Wizard of Oz’ brings childlike wonder to Tyler Civic Theatre stage

Published 3:40 pm Thursday, May 23, 2024

Paige Kummerfeld, understudy to Dorothy and Mishobi Johnson, practices as the General of the Winkies. (Contributed Photo)

The Tyler Civic Theatre Center is getting ready to hit the stage with a musical geared toward “kids — and the kid in all of us,” said theater veteran and director Steve Jones.

“The Wizard of Oz” will come to life on the TCTC stage beginning June 7 with multiple showings throughout the month of June.



This timeless classic is “the ultimate package” for bringing about childlike wonder and enchanting audiences as the cast journeys down the yellow brick road and into the magical land of Oz, Jones said.

“Another exciting fact is to know we are introducing this show to a whole new generation of kids,” Jones added.

Featuring a talented cast of local performers, the production promises to capture the hearts of all ages.

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“I am so lucky to have been able to put together one of the most talented cast ever,” Jones said. “All the leads are extremely well trained stage actors that are ‘eating up’ this chance to perform these roles. Rehearsals have been so much fun for everyone.”

The cast and crew have been working on the production since April 8.

“We started with the Munchkins to give them the most time to learn their big segment of the show,” Jones said.

Cast members include Sarabeth Wallace as Dorothy, London McGee as the Scarecrow, Alan Oliver as the Tin Man, Walker Delk as the Cowardly Lion, Allison McGee as Glinda the Good Witch and Nicki Dempsey as the Wicked Witch of the West.

Joining Jones as part of the production team are Assistant Director Walker Delk, Choreographer Lara Miller, and Music Director Kim Bonds.

“Audience members should expect to be transported into the magical world of Oz and delight in the song and dances that are staples of this musical,” as Dorothy and her companions embark on a quest to meet the enigmatic Wizard and discover there truly is no place like home, Jones said.

The show will be filled with memorable songs, dazzling costumes, and spectacular special effects, “The Wizard of Oz” is a theatrical experience Jones says guests won’t want to miss.

“Whether you’re a longtime fan or experiencing the magic for the first time, Tyler Civic Theatre Center invites you to join us for an unforgettable journey over the rainbow,” TCTC said.

Performance dates include June 7-9, June 13-16, June 20-23. There are nighttime and afternoon shows. Please visit https://tinyurl.com/5b3sbaz4 to purchase tickets or call the box office at 903-592-0561 or stop by during business hours Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The Tyler Civic Theatre Center has been a cornerstone of the local arts scene since 1949. It is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing quality theatrical productions and educational opportunities to the Tyler community. For more information, visit tylercivictheatre.com.