Despite the fact Greenfield High School no longer has an operating Drama Club; a group of passionate students intend to perform "The Wizard of Oz" in the upcoming month of January. Seniors Emily Mailloux, Kara McColgan, and of course celebrated English teacher Mr. McColgan are working in a joint effort to direct and reproduce the classic masterpiece. The cast feels The "Wizard of Oz" has the ability to satisfy and draw in both an elementary, high school, and public audience, which was the initial goal in making their judicious selection.

Upon my discussion with Kara, I learned the script is mostly composed of the original movie screenplay, although the cast has edited it somewhat with the intent of creating a more original feel. Considering it is still October, rehearsal has not yet begun, though they plan to practice a minimum of three times a week for two hours each session. Greenfield High School’s Stage Crew will operate the sound and lighting aspect of the production, while Emily Mailloux will contribute a tremendous amount of effort as she is both a director and playing the leading part of Dorothy. The participating actors and actresses are talented and take theatre seriously; therefore, they are expected to memorize their lines for the production. Every cast member was required to tryout for their character; doing so will prove the actor’s or actress’ dedication to the part.

The base of each costume was created from fabrics found at the Salvation Army, but of course each character will add a few personal touches to make their outfit more suitable and unique for the part. Conveniently, Dorothy’s famous ruby slippers were already in possession of a cast member prior to beginning their costume search.

Toto, Dorothy’s pet dog, has remained a memorable character in "The Wizard of Oz" throughout the past. Obviously, Greenfield High School’s play will be performed in front of a live audience, which arises the question of how will the role of Toto successfully be played? The cast has been debating this issue for a great deal of time. A live untrained dog would be difficult and unpredictable, while a fake Toto would be difficult in its own ways as well. Kara and other theatrically involved students would love to restart an extracurricular Drama Club in the future, but fear the outcome of the group may not be successful considering the casting call for The Wizard of Oz showed only a small number of six people. Despite this, she feels a Drama Club would be a wonderful attribute to Greenfield High School because it could serve another way for students to get involved in the community and school.

Although the major roles have already been filled, the participation of other students in the school is greatly encouraged. “Trees, Munchkins, and smaller parts make a huge difference (in the quality of the performance)…and students just need to speak up if they would like to join”, Kara said. Two to three general audience showings have been planned with a possible, cheap admission fee. One additional showing has been planned as well for elementary students where of course, there will be no charge. Kara and other cast members strongly recommend students to participate. If interested, contact Emily Mailloux, Kara McColgan, or Mr. McColgan. Even if you may be uncomfortable performing, be sure to go to the play and support our aspiring classmates for their hard and passionately done work.