I will say about having Dorothy arrive back in Kansas wearing her “Oz dress” and shoes- in the original L Frank Baum book Dorothy receives a dress in the Emerald City which she wears for the rest of the story and presumably wears when she returns to Kansas. The canon of the Baum Oz books is that Oz is a definitively real place, Dorothy and her family end up going back to Oz to live there permanently, so I would argue this direction of having Dorothy waking up in a field wearing her “Oz dress” and Ruby Slippers is very much in keeping with the L Frank Baum Oz canon, it’s just different from the MGM adaptation.
I think the reason why Munchkinland is all Blue is because in the original book the is the national color of Munchkin country and all the homes and clothes are all the color blue, even the grass
Your thoughts on the ending, I didn’t see it but I am a huge Wizard of Oz fan, from the way you described, it sounds like the creative team was paying homage to the OG ending of the book where Oz is real, not a dream and Dorothy “tumbles” back Into Kansas and comes to in the middle of the wheat field near the farm house.
We had front row seats and my 9 year old was sat next to the conductor! We had a great time and really felt like we were part of the show lol. We also had the chance to watch the band play which was a brilliant experience. I’ve been in many a local production so I sat there with a massive smile on my face all the way through which probably swayed my feelings about the show it’s self. I must admit I was a bit confused what was going on in few places but let it go as it’s not a deep plot anyway and we all kind of know the story anyway.
The ALW version that I think was originally staged in 2013 was the very first west end show I ever went to see so regardless I have so many emotions about this show!
The Lion in the desert of Kansas? lol! Reminds me of living in France in the 80's and seeing an advert for a show that touted the deserts of Louisiana--LOL! For those who may not know, the deserts in the USA are in the west, far from Kansas and Louisiana. From your review, it sounds like the production tried (and failed) to combine The Wiz and The Wizard of Oz. These two shows are quite literally worlds apart. Both shows, however, are quintessential American which is important to remember in adapting the story. From everything you've mentioned, it sounds like this production has some strong potential despite some flaws, so I hope there will be a serious evaluation and revision of the current production before it transfers to the West End.
So I'm a huge Oz fan. I just want Andrew Lloyd's version when it toured originally several years ago. It sounds like the version you're describing far different from what he put out. Although his did fall flat and places that you mentioned as well and his original version. You're commentary on the ending of the show is absolutely correct. The RCC version where she wakes up in her bed and all of a sudden there's something that happens in you see the shoes hiding and they glow and you know this was real I think it fulfills just as much of what everybody's trying to say that all this is a real place in every way and it's more magical than the way you describe this ending. And you made me laugh hysterically with the whole nonchalantness of her having these expensive shoes! Great commentary!
love all your content! I recently moved to the UK and your insights are so helpful in helping me decide on which shows to watch and how to enjoy shows more. I am always so entertained and informed by your content. From one creator to another, hope this little bit helps!
I have a lot of fond memories to the ALW production, as it was the the second West End show I ever saw (first being Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, back in around 2005ish). If Stomp counts as a West End show, then it’s my third! I saw it on a school trip. Was supposed to see We Will Rock You with the upper years, but I don’t enjoy Queen’s music much at all, and the soundtrack to TWOZ is timeless! After some playing up and bartering with the teachers, into the Palladium I go! There were ups and downs, the ALW additions were forgettable. I liked the little Dorothy Voodoo doll the Witch had during Red Shoes Blues, that was a nice touch! The Emerald City bits in Act II were brilliant though and looked and sounded straight out of the film, but on stage, in ultra-high def! Best part was telling my best mate, who went to see WWRY, is also a huge Some Mothers Do ‘Ave Em fan, that Frank Spencer was The Wizard! He was jealous, I tell you! That’s a great jumper as well! I bought the same one and have worn it every Christmas since lockdown!
This production does look cool. Hopefully it comes overseas here to NYC. I loved the original Palladium staging they did for this ALW version...... Danielle Hope, Sophie Evans, and Danielle Wade are amazing!!! Georgina Onuorah is the ultimate WOW factor!! Her OVER THE RAINBOW gave me chills from watching the BGT performance. Wish I can come to London from New York to see it!!!
0:36 I've Used To Saw Andrew Lloyd Webber And Tim Rice's The Wizard Of Oz The West End Musical At London's Wonderful London Palladium Back In September 2011 11 Years Ago. My Parents Mum And Dad Took Me To See The Show With Michael Crawford As Professor Marvel AKA The Wizard Of Oz And He's A Bit Like Rowan Atkinson As Fagin Aka Mr Bean In Lionel Bart And Cameron Mackintosh's OLIVER The Musical At London's Wonderful Theatre Royal Drury Lane Back In June 2009. Thanks Mate. PS I've So Excited For The Show's Big West End Return To Is Original Home At The London Palladium Next Year On July 1st 2023 Before Disney's The Lion King At London's Wonderful Lyceum Theatre In London's Glittering West End In London In England In The United Kingdom Just After Orlando Florida In The United States Of America During My The City Of Orlando And Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Museum And Universal Orlando Resort And Walt Disney World Resort In Florida And Birmingham In England Holiday Megatrip. Wish Me Luck. I'm Also A Huge Andrew Lloyd Webber Fanatic As Well Too. X
I saw "TWOZ" in LA a few years back. Interested in seeing a live stage version, with ALW behind it, I was certainly intrigued. While I wasn't too happy with the staging (it was very "high school" production). The only 'interesting' change to me was the Wicked Witch and giving her some fun to shine. Otherwise, I would give it a HUGH "Meh". You would never know Webber was behind it at all if it hadn't been advertised so.
One thing I will say about curve from my experience is there a big difference between watching at the circle than watching in the stalls (I prefer stalls)
"... and if I ever go looking for my heart's desire again, I won't look any further than my own backyard. Because if it isn't there, I never really lost it to begin with." Is THAT sentiment in this version?
The seems like this version was referencing the book a lot. Oz is real in the book and the dress from there she wears at the end. In the book the storm cellar is under the house with a trapdoor in the floor which might be why the run into the house
There’s also a stage version from the 1940s that was performed at the St Louis Muny. It’s not the most popular production anymore since the RSC version is basically verbatim the movie (and in the Muny version there’s some pretty outdated/politically incorrect jokes), and the Muny production adds characters but then cuts iconic ones like I think Toto? I’m not the hugest fan of ALW’s Oz but I agree with cutting “King of the Forrest.” Even in the movie it adds next to nothing haha. Sucks they took out Jitterbug though, it might not have worked in the movie, but it’s PRIME for a stage musical. If I was directing a production of Oz, I’d cut as much of that Kansas prologue as possible. I saw a community production recently and I forgot how long it takes to get to Oz. You can’t just lop off the whole opening scene I know, but it could be tighter. I was typing this while listening to your review and about to say the way you are describing this and the production photos remind me of the Wiz before you said it. Funny how it’s taking inspiration from that than the other way around. I agree though, sounds like I’d rather watch the Wiz haha
I have an opening night program from the original ALW production from an actress who is friends with Sophie Evans. Why did she give it to me? Teenage me was a very heavy theatre "collector" and she needed a visual reference of the show she was auditioning for. I also own a 20-foot billboard of a touring production of Evita because of this woman that Ebay won't let me sell for some reason...
This was in Melbourne a few years ago and they cast our OG Elphaba and Galinda Jemma Rix and Lucy Durack as the witches which was awesome for nostalgia!! But overall it was very ho hum nothing... Even Jemma singing Red Shoes Blues was a bit boring, which is saying something. We already know it too well perhaps. Snoozy.
I've just seen it at the Palladium. Hated it. Too many changes has robbed the story of it's heart. My overwhelming feeling was boredom, especially in the second act. The stage looked half empty a lot of the time & the garish design...just yuck. 2 stars.
You may not have an answer for this but, as you played the scarecrow, why do you think Dorthy says to the scarecrow, “I think I’ll miss you most of all”? 15:27-15:32= That’s interesting that you would say that they needed to oil the Tinman after waking up from the Poppy’s instead of the snow unrust him because that is exactly what happens in the 1939 film. I also completely agree with you that it should have been included because not only is it logical, but (at least in the film) it gives the wicked witch time for a little monologue/reaction to them waking up. 7:36-7:43=YES! there is absolutely a reel online of “the jitterbug” scene that was filmed for the movie but was ultimately cut out. 19:03-19:32= In the 1939 film we do meet all the Kansas parallel’s, including “the man behind the curtain”, before we eventually meeting there Oz parallel’s so I don’t really find it strange.
Just saw this today! Still a lot to process Was a relaxed performance matinee Was Sold out! Big fan and friend of Christina (Glinda) Love her so much Dorothy/Georgina carried the show very well. She was great Charlotte was amazing as the wicked witch of the west Would go for 3.5-4/5 rating I think Recognised some songs from the film The guys playing scarecrow, tin man and lion were fun The visual effects might have been dulled down a bit for the relaxed show Toto puppet was definitely a highlight I think I personally prefer Wicked
I’m all for a remake or reboot, but did Webber really merge his music with the original. If you’re going to write a new Oz, make it your own. This is just lazy and annoying.
MICKEYJO: I WAS AN EXECUTIVE AT WARNER BROS. MOTION PICTURES IN HOLLYWOOD WHEN THE IDEA THAT ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER WANTED TO TOSS OUT THE OSCAR-WINNING MUSIC FOR "THE WIZARD OF OZ" WAS FIRST PROPOSED. (WARNER BROS. OWNS THE RIGHTS TO THE ORIGINAL MGM MOTION PICTURE.) I WAS IN A LARGE BOARD ROOM SITTING WITH A BUNCH OF MOTION PICTURE EXECUTIVES AROUND A LONG POLISHED BOARD ROOM TABLE JUST LIKE YOU MIGHT SEE IN AN OLD MOTION PICTURE. I LOOKED UP FROM MY NOTES AND SAID: "WHY DON'T WE HAVE LLOYD WEBBER RE-WRITE MOZART'S 'COSI FAN TUTTE' WHILE WE'RE AT IT?!?" ABSOLUTELY TRUE STORY!!! LOVE YOUR REVIEWS, MICKEYJO!! XXX OOO
I will say about having Dorothy arrive back in Kansas wearing her “Oz dress” and shoes- in the original L Frank Baum book Dorothy receives a dress in the Emerald City which she wears for the rest of the story and presumably wears when she returns to Kansas. The canon of the Baum Oz books is that Oz is a definitively real place, Dorothy and her family end up going back to Oz to live there permanently, so I would argue this direction of having Dorothy waking up in a field wearing her “Oz dress” and Ruby Slippers is very much in keeping with the L Frank Baum Oz canon, it’s just different from the MGM adaptation.
Yes! I've never liked how the original movie made Oz a dream.
I think the reason why Munchkinland is all Blue is because in the original book the is the national color of Munchkin country and all the homes and clothes are all the color blue, even the grass
PLEASE make a video series on what all the over the rainbow contestants have been up to!!!!!
What’s on stage account may have done this recently
Your thoughts on the ending, I didn’t see it but I am a huge Wizard of Oz fan, from the way you described, it sounds like the creative team was paying homage to the OG ending of the book where Oz is real, not a dream and Dorothy “tumbles” back Into Kansas and comes to in the middle of the wheat field near the farm house.
We had front row seats and my 9 year old was sat next to the conductor! We had a great time and really felt like we were part of the show lol. We also had the chance to watch the band play which was a brilliant experience. I’ve been in many a local production so I sat there with a massive smile on my face all the way through which probably swayed my feelings about the show it’s self. I must admit I was a bit confused what was going on in few places but let it go as it’s not a deep plot anyway and we all kind of know the story anyway.
The ALW version that I think was originally staged in 2013 was the very first west end show I ever went to see so regardless I have so many emotions about this show!
Ooh! My local theatre! The curve would have gone under if it hadn't been for musicals. 😁
The Lion in the desert of Kansas? lol! Reminds me of living in France in the 80's and seeing an advert for a show that touted the deserts of Louisiana--LOL! For those who may not know, the deserts in the USA are in the west, far from Kansas and Louisiana.
From your review, it sounds like the production tried (and failed) to combine The Wiz and The Wizard of Oz. These two shows are quite literally worlds apart. Both shows, however, are quintessential American which is important to remember in adapting the story.
From everything you've mentioned, it sounds like this production has some strong potential despite some flaws, so I hope there will be a serious evaluation and revision of the current production before it transfers to the West End.
Seeing it on Christmas in Australia! Merry Christmas Mickey, Aaron & families ❤
So I'm a huge Oz fan. I just want Andrew Lloyd's version when it toured originally several years ago. It sounds like the version you're describing far different from what he put out. Although his did fall flat and places that you mentioned as well and his original version. You're commentary on the ending of the show is absolutely correct. The RCC version where she wakes up in her bed and all of a sudden there's something that happens in you see the shoes hiding and they glow and you know this was real I think it fulfills just as much of what everybody's trying to say that all this is a real place in every way and it's more magical than the way you describe this ending. And you made me laugh hysterically with the whole nonchalantness of her having these expensive shoes! Great commentary!
love all your content! I recently moved to the UK and your insights are so helpful in helping me decide on which shows to watch and how to enjoy shows more. I am always so entertained and informed by your content. From one creator to another, hope this little bit helps!
I have a lot of fond memories to the ALW production, as it was the the second West End show I ever saw (first being Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, back in around 2005ish). If Stomp counts as a West End show, then it’s my third!
I saw it on a school trip. Was supposed to see We Will Rock You with the upper years, but I don’t enjoy Queen’s music much at all, and the soundtrack to TWOZ is timeless!
After some playing up and bartering with the teachers, into the Palladium I go!
There were ups and downs, the ALW additions were forgettable. I liked the little Dorothy Voodoo doll the Witch had during Red Shoes Blues, that was a nice touch!
The Emerald City bits in Act II were brilliant though and looked and sounded straight out of the film, but on stage, in ultra-high def!
Best part was telling my best mate, who went to see WWRY, is also a huge Some Mothers Do ‘Ave Em fan, that Frank Spencer was The Wizard! He was jealous, I tell you!
That’s a great jumper as well! I bought the same one and have worn it every Christmas since lockdown!
This production does look cool. Hopefully it comes overseas here to NYC. I loved the original Palladium staging they did for this ALW version...... Danielle Hope, Sophie Evans, and Danielle Wade are amazing!!! Georgina Onuorah is the ultimate WOW factor!! Her OVER THE RAINBOW gave me chills from watching the BGT performance. Wish I can come to London from New York to see it!!!
Hope everyone had an amazing Christmas can't wait for the next matilda video
The theme is 1950s America (as Grease is), not steampunk. I am guessing the 1950s were different in Britain than America.
0:36 I've Used To Saw Andrew Lloyd Webber And Tim Rice's The Wizard Of Oz The West End Musical At London's Wonderful London Palladium Back In September 2011 11 Years Ago. My Parents Mum And Dad Took Me To See The Show With Michael Crawford As Professor Marvel AKA The Wizard Of Oz And He's A Bit Like Rowan Atkinson As Fagin Aka Mr Bean In Lionel Bart And Cameron Mackintosh's OLIVER The Musical At London's Wonderful Theatre Royal Drury Lane Back In June 2009. Thanks Mate. PS I've So Excited For The Show's Big West End Return To Is Original Home At The London Palladium Next Year On July 1st 2023 Before Disney's The Lion King At London's Wonderful Lyceum Theatre In London's Glittering West End In London In England In The United Kingdom Just After Orlando Florida In The United States Of America During My The City Of Orlando And Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Museum And Universal Orlando Resort And Walt Disney World Resort In Florida And Birmingham In England Holiday Megatrip. Wish Me Luck. I'm Also A Huge Andrew Lloyd Webber Fanatic As Well Too. X
I saw "TWOZ" in LA a few years back. Interested in seeing a live stage version, with ALW behind it, I was certainly intrigued. While I wasn't too happy with the staging (it was very "high school" production). The only 'interesting' change to me was the Wicked Witch and giving her some fun to shine. Otherwise, I would give it a HUGH "Meh". You would never know Webber was behind it at all if it hadn't been advertised so.
Have seen this production four times and loved it
Interesting re your comments about set, reminds me of The Wiz
I want your jumper....but it is hot over xmas in australia
One thing I will say about curve from my experience is there a big difference between watching at the circle than watching in the stalls (I prefer stalls)
Merry Christmas to you both.
"... and if I ever go looking for my heart's desire again, I won't look any further than my own backyard. Because if it isn't there, I never really lost it to begin with." Is THAT sentiment in this version?
Please do a video of over the rainbow!!!
The seems like this version was referencing the book a lot. Oz is real in the book and the dress from there she wears at the end. In the book the storm cellar is under the house with a trapdoor in the floor which might be why the run into the house
There’s also a stage version from the 1940s that was performed at the St Louis Muny. It’s not the most popular production anymore since the RSC version is basically verbatim the movie (and in the Muny version there’s some pretty outdated/politically incorrect jokes), and the Muny production adds characters but then cuts iconic ones like I think Toto?
I’m not the hugest fan of ALW’s Oz but I agree with cutting “King of the Forrest.” Even in the movie it adds next to nothing haha. Sucks they took out Jitterbug though, it might not have worked in the movie, but it’s PRIME for a stage musical. If I was directing a production of Oz, I’d cut as much of that Kansas prologue as possible. I saw a community production recently and I forgot how long it takes to get to Oz. You can’t just lop off the whole opening scene I know, but it could be tighter.
I was typing this while listening to your review and about to say the way you are describing this and the production photos remind me of the Wiz before you said it. Funny how it’s taking inspiration from that than the other way around. I agree though, sounds like I’d rather watch the Wiz haha
Did you prefer this production or the original Andrew Lloyd Webber palladium production
I have an opening night program from the original ALW production from an actress who is friends with Sophie Evans. Why did she give it to me? Teenage me was a very heavy theatre "collector" and she needed a visual reference of the show she was auditioning for. I also own a 20-foot billboard of a touring production of Evita because of this woman that Ebay won't let me sell for some reason...
They defo used the oil can by the way to free the tin man.
Munchkin country is blue in the book
"I hear that it's weird that I care this much..." Ha! That's what makes this channel unique.
I'm so glad I have never seen the ALW "version." I certainly, definitely do not need to.
I will see it. Next summer at The London Palladium.
This was in Melbourne a few years ago and they cast our OG Elphaba and Galinda Jemma Rix and Lucy Durack as the witches which was awesome for nostalgia!! But overall it was very ho hum nothing... Even Jemma singing Red Shoes Blues was a bit boring, which is saying something. We already know it too well perhaps. Snoozy.
I've just seen it at the Palladium. Hated it. Too many changes has robbed the story of it's heart. My overwhelming feeling was boredom, especially in the second act. The stage looked half empty a lot of the time & the garish design...just yuck. 2 stars.
Thanks
Festive Zest to you & Aeron! I don't like any shows by Sir ALW, but I love your channel.
Sir ALW-- Ugggh! (Groan).
You may not have an answer for this but, as you played the scarecrow, why do you think Dorthy says to the scarecrow, “I think I’ll miss you most of all”?
15:27-15:32= That’s interesting that you would say that they needed to oil the Tinman after waking up from the Poppy’s instead of the snow unrust him because that is exactly what happens in the 1939 film. I also completely agree with you that it should have been included because not only is it logical, but (at least in the film) it gives the wicked witch time for a little monologue/reaction to them waking up.
7:36-7:43=YES! there is absolutely a reel online of “the jitterbug” scene that was filmed for the movie but was ultimately cut out.
19:03-19:32= In the 1939 film we do meet all the Kansas parallel’s, including “the man behind the curtain”, before we eventually meeting there Oz parallel’s so I don’t really find it strange.
"I think I'll miss you most of all." From what I've read was an ad libbed line from Judy Garland.
@@kallen868 that’s really sweet, thank you for replying
Andrew? I only know Amdrew and his hit musicals: Bats, Stardim tram and Simderella 😂
Just saw this today!
Still a lot to process
Was a relaxed performance matinee
Was Sold out!
Big fan and friend of Christina (Glinda) Love her so much
Dorothy/Georgina carried the show very well. She was great
Charlotte was amazing as the wicked witch of the west
Would go for 3.5-4/5 rating I think
Recognised some songs from the film
The guys playing scarecrow, tin man and lion were fun
The visual effects might have been dulled down a bit for the relaxed show
Toto puppet was definitely a highlight
I think I personally prefer Wicked
Hi how are you
I’m all for a remake or reboot, but did Webber really merge his music with the original. If you’re going to write a new Oz, make it your own. This is just lazy and annoying.
I watched it and I didn’t really like it. She made an amazing Dorothy but it was all too different from the movie which I love.
I have seen it and I hated it. They actually ruined it for me the last London production was so much better
Lol. The Wicked Witch of Industry. I don't think so.
Why do people listen to this man ramble on for 30 minutes ? First and last time for me. Just watch it and make up your own mind.
Nobody is obliged to listen to my rambling, don't worry 🙂
MICKEYJO: I WAS AN EXECUTIVE AT WARNER BROS. MOTION PICTURES IN HOLLYWOOD WHEN THE IDEA THAT ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER WANTED TO TOSS OUT THE OSCAR-WINNING MUSIC FOR "THE WIZARD OF OZ" WAS FIRST PROPOSED. (WARNER BROS. OWNS THE RIGHTS TO THE ORIGINAL MGM MOTION PICTURE.) I WAS IN A LARGE BOARD ROOM SITTING WITH A BUNCH OF MOTION PICTURE EXECUTIVES AROUND A LONG POLISHED BOARD ROOM TABLE JUST LIKE YOU MIGHT SEE IN AN OLD MOTION PICTURE. I LOOKED UP FROM MY NOTES AND SAID: "WHY DON'T WE HAVE LLOYD WEBBER RE-WRITE MOZART'S 'COSI FAN TUTTE' WHILE WE'RE AT IT?!?" ABSOLUTELY TRUE STORY!!! LOVE YOUR REVIEWS, MICKEYJO!! XXX OOO
ALW thinks he is better than anyone else. He has enormous ego with a small shread of talent. I can not stand him.
Love your analogy.
Why tamper with the classic.
There is a reason everyone clammers to the original.