Life-changing performances have Dorothy, Glinda actors dreaming of careers in music, theatre
Sara Eisinger
sara@thesmokymountaintimes.com
Dorothy’s ruby red boots are sure to glisten under Swain Arts Center’s bright lights in an all student led, Appalachia themed “The Wizard of Oz” production starting Friday, March 28.
Approximately 30 Swain County elementary through high school students were cast in the play. Others will oversee the munchkins, stage props, lights, cleaning, etc.
“We are following Dorothy and her venture into the great ole’ land of Oz,” said Rosemary Pearl Moore, teacher of performing arts. “She and companions Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion are going to the wizard to get a brain, heart, courage and a home… hopefully. We are telling the story through an Appalachian setting, showcasing Appalachia things. There will be a lot of flowers. When I think of this show I think of Appalachia and that, for me, is home.”
Tin Man will be played by Myles Taylor and his costume is made of license plates. Kim Holt, teacher of special education, made many of the costumes including Glinda’s pink, patchy dress.
Two Dorothy leads and two Glinda leads were cast. Cassie Fortner and Abby Cutler each play Dorothy. Lola Collins and Isabel Barker play Glinda.
“I have been doing this for four years and this is one of my favorite roles ever, so I am really excited,” Collins said. “I get to descend over the audience.”
The Glinda actress felt inspired by Ariana Grande’s performance in “Wicked.”
“I love her pink dress and the high notes she gets to hit,” Collins said. “Hopefully, you will get to hear a couple in the show from me. This dress just has a different spin because it’s Appalachian themed.”
Collins made Glinda’s wand and crown for the show. Others will wear blue checkered dresses.
“My boots are bedazzled ruby boots and they’re gorgeous,” Fortner said. “I’ve always admired Dorothy. She is ‘Dorky Dorothy,’ ya know? She is also brave, courageous and just so adorable. She goes to Oz and meets these crazy people, not like in Kansas. It’s definitely, like, this out of world experience. It is a spinoff, but it is one in a million. You are going to feel it all.”
Fortner shared the thoughts and boots of her fellow-lead.
“I love being a star,” Cutler said. “I really like to sing ‘Over the Rainbow’ because it is really sedimental. Munchkin Land is really fun with all the little kids. I really enjoy that scene.”
Collins plans to attend Belmont University after graduation to major in song writing.
Meanwhile, Fortner’s new experience in the world of theatre has sparked new interests.
“It has made me reconsider my career path after high school,” Fortner said. “I was going to do cosmetology, but now I am thinking I do want to have my foot in the door somewhere in theatre.’
Cutler also said she wants to major in theatre.
The Appalachia themed “The Wizard of Oz” production will take place at Swain Arts Center.
Show admissions cost $6 per student and $12 per adult.
Show times are as followed: March 28 and 29 at 7 p.m; March 30 at 2:30 p.m.; April 4 and 5 at 7 p.m.; April 6 at 2:30 p.m.