By: Kaitlin Zambotti, Eastern Regional High School, Voorhees Twp.
PENNSAUKEN, N.J. — “Everybody Rejoice” for Pennsauken High School‘s production of The Wiz, a “Tornado” of a show that transported audiences into a technicolor world of friendship and magic.
With a book by William F. Brown, plus music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls, the seven-time Tony Award-winning musical, The Wiz, opened on Broadway in 1975, later to be adapted into a hit film starring Diana Ross. The story puts an Afro-futuristic twist on the classic novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum, following the journey of a young girl named Dorothy after a tornado whisks her away from her home in Kansas to a mysterious land called Oz.
Pennsauken’s production came to life with vibrant choreography and costumes that enhanced the presentation of the widely-beloved tale. Additionally, each ensemble gave an effective performance, whether representing the nefarious tornado, the yellow brick road, or the field of poppies.
Oz’s star quartet of reluctant heroes featured Dorothy (Maica Nesmith), Scarecrow (Sydney McCurry), Tinman (Aiden Scott), and Lion (Kyanah Harris). The sibling-like dynamic amongst the four performers unfolded in an incredibly entertaining manner throughout the show, ensuring there was never a dull moment. Nesmith was expressive in both her dancing and singing, especially during her heartfelt rendition of “Home” in the finale. Furthermore, the rest of the group excelled in their comedic timing and characterization, with Harris and McCurry being particular crowd favorites. Scott also had fabulous vocals and dance moves in his solo moments.
Cymara Williams had an intimidating stage presence as Evillene, the infamous wicked witch of the west, and her gritty vocals were a perfect fit for the role. On the other end of the moral spectrum were the good witches, Glinda (Nicole Del Rio Cedano) and her sister Addaperle (Laila Worley). Cedano, with her whimsical vocals and steady tone, played an impactful role in the short time she was featured. The chemistry between her and Worley was believably sister-like and therefore very heartwarming to watch. Finally, Madison McKenzie combined her commanding voice and acting skills to give a captivating performance as the allegedly “all-powerful” Wiz.
The production shined in many of its technical aspects as well, and perhaps the most literal example of this was its lighting design. The colorful lights were dazzling and enhanced key components of the plot, most notably the grandiose introduction of The Wiz. The set was also intriguing, and the audience let out a collective “ooh” when Dorothy’s house came apart during the tornado sequence. Additionally, the run crew, dressed as construction workers, executed swift scene changes and even participated in some dancing while they were on stage.
In the end, Pennsauken produced a show that was “No Bad News” and brought an iconic story to life in a fresh way.
- What’s Good in South Jersey? Chris the Barber
- Stockton Hosts Annual Lines on the Pines Event
- Rowan University Virtua Health Opens Research Center
Follow South Jersey provides local journalism which highlights our diverse communities; fosters transparency through robust, localized, and vital reporting that holds leaders and institutions accountable; addresses critical information needs; supports people in navigating civic life; and equips people with the information necessary to partake in effective community engagement. If there is a story or event you think we should cover, please send your tips to news@followsouthjersey.com with “NEWS” in the subject line.
