By Elizabeth Hulsbrink
Geneseo Current
April 23, 2025
Geneseo High School Performing Arts
The energy in the DePauw Theater was electric as students from Geneseo High School took to the stage for their much-anticipated production of The Wizard of Oz (RSC Version). With months of hard work culminating in a weekend of performances, the cast, orchestra, crew, and directors brought to life a beloved story through impressive vocals, vibrant choreography, and heartfelt acting. From the moment the curtain parted, it was clear that this was more than just a school musical—it was a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and youthful passion for the performing arts.
The proverbial yellow brick road came to vibrant life on the stage this past weekend, as students delivered this ambitious and heartwarming performance. Based on the beloved 1939 film and adapted by the Royal Shakespeare Company, this version preserves the charm, music, and magic of the original while offering expanded scenes and dialogue tailored for the stage. From the iconic opening notes of "Over the Rainbow" to the triumphant return to Kansas, the production showcased not only the talent of its young cast and crew, but also their dedication to bringing a classic story to life with theatrical flair and emotional depth.
Leading the cast with poise and sincerity was senior Shay Schehl as Dorothy Gale. With a clear, expressive voice and a natural stage presence, she captured Dorothy’s wide-eyed wonder and quiet strength, especially in a heartfelt rendition of “Over the Rainbow.” Junior Perry Farley brought warmth and humor to the role of the Scarecrow, delighting the audience with nimble physical comedy and a genuine charm during “If I Only Had a Brain.” As the Tin Man, senior Logan VanDeWoestyne offered a touching performance, infusing “If I Only Had a Heart” with just the right blend of melancholy and hope. Meanwhile, in his acting debut, junior Landry Possin’s Cowardly Lion was a crowd favorite, earning plenty of laughs and applause with his animated expressions and comedic timing, and, of course, the perfect lion’s growls!
The supporting cast also shone, with senior Clara Huddleston bringing both sparkle and sass to Glinda the Good Witch, while senior Beth Mroz’s Wicked Witch of the West was deliciously menacing, delivering her lines with flair and just the right dose of theatrical villainy. Ensemble members from local elementary schools and seniors Jonathan Freadhoff, as the Emerald City Guard, and Jackson Brumbaugh, as The Wizard of Oz, added richness to every scene, particularly in Munchkinland and the Emerald City, where vibrant costumes and tight choreography added delight and awe.
Visually, the production was a feast for the eyes. The set design cleverly balanced practicality with imagination, transporting the audience from the gray tones of Kansas to the dazzling technicolor world of Oz. The transition—from Dorothy’s farmhouse spinning into the tornado to her arrival in Munchkinland—was especially well-executed, using lighting, the cyclorama, and sound effects to great dramatic effect. A special shoutout to the “flying” people in the tornado! Fabulous touch!!
Costumes played a key role in bringing the fantasy to life. From the glittering pinks of Glinda’s gown to the iconic blue gingham dress worn by Dorothy, each outfit was thoughtfully crafted and true to the film’s spirit. The Wicked Witch’s green makeup and flowing black cloak added just the right level of theatrical menace, while the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion all had wonderfully detailed costumes that allowed for both mobility and personality.
Director Joe DePauw deserves special credit for guiding such a large cast with clarity and vision. The pacing never lagged, and every scene felt purposeful and engaging. The choreography, particularly in ensemble numbers like “Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead” and “Merry Old Land of Oz,” was tight, joyful, and well-rehearsed, showcasing both the students’ energy and the director’s attention to detail.
Geneseo High School’s production of The Wizard of Oz (RSC version) was a charming and skillful tribute to a timeless classic. From strong vocal and orchestral performances to creative staging, the entire cast and crew delivered a show full of heart and imagination. A special shoutout goes to Toto, played by the scene-stealing Bo (owner Amy Roberts, Geneseo), whose calm and adorable presence added extra magic to the performance. It was a production that truly reminded the audience that there’s no place like home.