By Jennifer Stultz
Tri-County Tribune Editor
jstultz@Cherryroad.com

The Wizard of Oz opens in April at Barclay College in Haviland, with a Kiowa County High School student playing the lead role of Dorothy in the production.

Like Dorothy, Follette has faced challenges in her young life, undergoing major surgery for scoliosis this past December. Follette’s family and friends believe it is a true miracle that, after just a few months of recovery, she is now singing, dancing, and performing as if nothing happened.

“It is truly a miracle,” said Oz director and Barclay College Director of Fine Arts Randi Shetley. ”So many people were praying for her, and her recovery is astonishing. It is a true testimony of God’s work and healing.”

Follette, a freshman in high school, has been in more than 10 Barclay College theatre productions, playing roles such as Jane in Mary Poppins, Tommy Boy in Newsies, and other various singing and dancing roles.

“I also have played the roles of Winnie Foster in Tuck Everlasting and Wendy in Peter Pan with the Twilight Players,” she said.

Follette is convinced that audiences for the upcoming Wizard of Oz will love this production because this show tells a beautiful story about friendship and the journey to find one’s heart desire.

“Our director leads us in every show to find the redemption aspect in the story and I think that is what makes Barclay productions so special. Also, this show has a wonderful cast that really brings the humorous and heartfelt aspects of the story to life. I am really excited to get to play the character of Dorothy. She is really compassionate and her bravery shines through her desire to protect her friends,” Follette said. “Throughout the story Dorothy grows as she faces challenges and learns to rely on her friends. She goes on a big adventure only to realize that the answer was in her own backyard, and that there really is no place like home.”

Shetley said that The Wizard of Oz, brings a timeless tale to the stage with unforgettable performances, dazzling costumes, and a whole lot of heart. Inspired by the beloved MGM film and L. Frank Baum’s classic story, this production is packed with adventure, laughter, and plenty of surprises, she said.

Show dates will be April 4, 5, 11, and 12 at 7 p.m.; · April 6 and 13 at 3 p.m. with center section tickets: $15, and left and right section tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for kids, all shows. There is a group rate: $8 per ticket for groups of 15+ (contact Barclay College for details). Tickets are now available online at barclaycollege.edu/oz and at the door one hour before showtime (while supplies last).

Shetley said she has a lifelong enthusiasm for this classic show.

“Every year growing up, my family and I would sit down with a big bowl of popcorn to watch The Wizard of Oz. The Wicked Witch and flying monkeys always made me nervous, but I couldn’t look away,” she said. “Now, as a Kansas girl directing this show, I couldn’t be more excited. We’ve got some fun surprises in store for our audiences!”

Choreographer Traci Ballard has designed high-energy dance numbers, including jazz, tap, and ballroom styles. This production even features The Jitterbug, a lively song originally cut from the 1939 film but brought back for the stage—audiences are going to love it!

Vocal director Kim Stewart has been working with the cast to bring powerful and beautiful harmonies to the show. With over 50 talented performers from Barclay College and the local community, this production is full of heart and energy.

More than 130 costumes, breathtaking visuals, and a powerhouse cast, will make The Wizard of Oz an experience the whole family will love.

The complete cast list for The Wizard of Oz is as follows:

· Dorothy Gale: Cadie Follette (Kiowa County HS)

· Scarecrow: Bryan Pena (BC Senior)

· Tin Man: Kenneth Haines (BC Junior)

· Cowardly Lion: Samuel Webster (BC Junior)

· The Great and Powerful Oz: Kevin Haydon (BC Staff)

· Glinda the Good: Samantha Foster (BC Freshman)

· Wicked Witch of the West: Mariah Evans (BC Senior)

Creative Team:

· Director: Randi Shetley

· Vocal Director: Kim Stewart

· Choreography: Traci Ballard

· Technical Director: Casey Roberts

· Set Design: Shane Shetley

· Lighting Design: Marki Sulzbach

· Costume Design Team: Deb Folkerts, Marilyn Giles, Wendy Hayden, Bella Foster, Joyce Bryan, Lori Binford, and Maggie Marsh

The Wizard of Oz is presented by arrangement with Tams-Witmark, a Concord Theatricals company. www.concordtheatricals.com