Follow the Yellow Brick Road to the "Wizard of Oz" at Bellmore Theater

The folks at Plaza Theatrical Productions have outdone themselves with their rendition of "The Wizard of Oz" musical, being presented all week at the Bellmore Theater & The Showplace.

This cast did not disappoint. They kept a packed house of children and parents alike entertained and enthralled. Each musical number was sung perfectly, including house favorites "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and "We're Off to See the Wizard."

Dorothy, played by Emma Harrington, was exquisite in her role and even managed to have just the right pitch in her voice. Glinda the Good Witch (Lisa Berman, who also played Aunt Em) and the Bad Witch (Ruthe McKeown, who also played Miss Gultch) were spot on in each performance. Ruthe McKeown, especially stood out. John Holly made for a perfect Wizard/Professor Marvel.

And who could forget the main cast of characters? Dorothy's traveling partners, the Scarecrow (Patrick Rosenberger), Tin Man (Phil Provenzano) and Cowardly Lion (TC Weiss). Each performed their solos very well and seemed comfortable in their roles. TC Weiss - a standout in most Plaza Theatrical performances - was very humorous in his role, pouncing around the stage quite spryly.

The costumes - put together by Barbara Kirby - were done quite nicely. Each cast member was well-outfitted and it definitely added to the show's experience and on-stage ambiance. Some audience members came in costume as well. Several girls donned blue gingham dresses and Glinda the Good Witch outfits, while little boys dresses like lions.

The show was directed by Tommie Gibbons, with Steve Goldstein and Alan Kingsley as the musical directors. Tim Morgenstern was the stage manager and Barbara Kirby did costume design. Steve Goldstein was the pianist for this musical play. "The Wizard of Oz" is presented through a special arrangement with Tams-Witmark Music Library.

Plaza Theatrical Productions will be performing "The Wizard of Oz" through April 3 at 11 a.m. Plaza Theatrical is a non-profit organization with Kevin F. Harrington and Phyllis S. Harrington as the producers. Tickets are $10 and include popcorn and a drink.

For tickets or more information, visit Plaza Theatrical Productions' Web site or call the box office at 599-6870.