Choate is soon to be surprised by a unique and entertaining yet simple work of theatre that will grace the stage this April, introducing something new to the community at large. It will be a children’s performance of The Wizard of Oz played by Choate students.
Ms. Carol Jones, Choate’s Community Program Manager and a music teacher that has worked at the school for almost 20 years, will be directing The Wizard of Oz this spring. However, this will not be the typical musical rendition with extravagant sets and costuming, because the children’s show will be performed in Reader’s Theatre style.
When watching her first Reader’s Theater show, The Princess Bride, Ms. Jones was inspired by the simplicity of the performance that allowed the imagination to take over. The production will feature no costumes, no makeup, no props and no set. The actors will utilize their vocals and expressions to convey the story. There may be a few student works incorporated in the backgrounds as backdrops for changing scenes, but all else will be left to the imagination of the audience. More importantly, the children will be able to employ their own creative devices in experiencing the magic of the show and story. The production is, to put it simply, a bedtime story on a grander scale.
Ms. Jones chose to direct The Wizard of Oz because of its familiarity and reputation as a timeless favorite. She believes it will be a good play to introduce the Reader’s Theater to Choate. The show will be based off of the musical yet made more accessible to the child audience, for it would be difficult for them to sit through two hours of a production without an intermission.
As for who Ms. Jones is looking for in casting she says, “Any actor who is interested in trying something new, telling a story and having fun. It’s not just about acting. It’s about creating and being part of an ensemble. Anyone can audition to learn and bring something.” The show will be centered on the students and what they are able to do with simple elements to create a memorable production. The unique approach to the show highlights the importance of enunciation and articulation in effective acting.
Little if any memorization is required of the actors, for the play will be read aloud like a book. All songs are a sing-along so no one has to feel like it’s all on them. In fact, no particular vocal experience is necessary to be casted. The sing-along element also allows for further audience engagement, which facilitates a better show for all. The overall intimacy of the Reader’s Theatre style is what contributes to the rareness of the show.
Ms. Jones hopes that the production will be successful and that more Reader’s style plays will follow in the coming years. Not only does she believe that the approach is wonderful for a child’s imagination, but it will also shine light on the importance of enjoying stories without all of the extra props and scenery that sometimes detract from actor’s storytelling.
The production will open on Friday April 20 in the Gelb Theater, and there will be an additional show on Saturday April 21st. Audition material can be found on the Choate portal, as well as the call board in the PMAC.
