By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor
Pennsauken Stages invites the community to “ease on down the road” to Pennsauken High School for their upcoming performances of “The Wiz.” The Tony Award-winning Broadway musical that received both the movie treatment in 1978 and a live television adaptation in 2015 features music and a story that has a wide appeal.
“It’s something that most of our students have grown up with,” explains Kate Guenther, vocal music and theatre director at Pennsauken High School. “It’s a fun show. It’s got some iconic music to it. It’s a story that people know.”
“The kids are excited about it. ‘The Wiz’ has had a resurgence with the live TV version and the Broadway revival and tour,” added David Nikolas, co-director of the show and PHS substitute teacher.
“I think that ‘The Wiz’ is a beautiful story where you can find love wherever you go,” continued Maich Nesmith, a PHS senior who plays the role of Dorothy and is a student choreographer. “I loved the show when I was little. The songs and the harmonies and all the characters work together.”
“The Wiz” is a reimaging of L. Frank Baum’s classic children’s book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” through the lens of African American culture. Not only is the musical a great vehicle for Pennsauken High School’s diverse demographic, but it also offers an opportunity for a good amount of creativity.
“We like to put together a unique vision for our productions, so we are adding elements known as ‘Steam Punk’ this year,” explained Nikolas. “It’s very motivated by gears, chains, steel, and manual technology.”
To help create that aesthetic, Pennsauken Stages has enlisted the school’s CTE welding class to help, building metal trusses to use with the scenery.
Guenther explained that the cast consists of many students who were in the show last year, as well as those who are back from previous shows. They are also excited to have a large group of seventh and eighth graders in our ensemble. She went on to say that they are encouraging the kids to make the performances their own.”
“We really want them to be themselves on stage,” said Guenther.
Kyanah Harris, a junior who is playing the Lion, indicated that she, along with the other talented students of Pennsauken Stages, are up for the challenge.
“It’s very nerve wracking but exciting, because the role really suits me and I can find a lot of me in the lion,” continued Harris. “I like being able to express myself in a way I can’t do in the real world. I can explore a little bit more of myself.”
“I’m still trying to find how I want to play Dorothy,” added Nesmith. “I’m trying to take inspiration from what was done before but making it my own.”
Zoey Lawrence, a senior who is playing Aunt Em in the musical, is taking inspiration from a special person in her life: Rosalyn Lawrence, principal of Delair Elementary and Zoey’s aunt.
“I’m incorporating her kindhearted nature for the role,” said Lawrence, who is also a student director and is involved with costuming for the show. “I stole her big personality when it comes to my singing.”
With several rehearsals under their belt and more work to be done before opening night, Pennsauken Stages is already excited to share the culmination of their hard work with the community.
“This show is entertaining and emotional and relatable,” explained Maica. “The lyrics can apply to your life and it’s a lot of fun.”
“’The Wiz’ shows you that no matter where you are, you’ll find a place where you belong,” said Lawrence.
“We’ve got quite a few surprises in store,” continued Nikolas. “We can’t wait to share them with our audience.”
“This is going to be a wonderful celebration of community and friendship through song and dance,” added Guenther. “Don’t miss it!” Pennsauken Stages’ performances of “The Wiz” will be at Pennsauken High School, 800 Hylton Rd. Show times are April 10-12 at 7:00 p.m., with a matinee on April 13 at 2:00 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors. Online ticket sales will begin later this month at Pennsauken.net and can also be purchased in advance by calling (856) 662-8500 x5273. Tickets will also be available at the door.
