Cork Opera House
The charm and wisdom of L. Frank Baum's story survive in the Opera House presentation of The Wizard of Oz - but only just. The quintet of Karen Hackett, Neil Pearson, Ian McGuirk, Richie Hayes and Rebecca Smith (assisted by Scrappy as Toto the dog) carry the production with professional command.
As Dorothy, Lion, Tinman, Scarecrow and the best (or worst) Wicked Witch ever to come out of the west, they perform with complete conviction, captivating their audience and delivering all that could be asked of them.
But they are almost defeated by a sound system of screeching pitch and an intensity which makes whispers as piercing as a wind-storm and every footfall a thunderclap.
The leading performers seem to enjoy the opportunities of this musical version of a story of loss, friendship and recovery, enhanced by the witty dialogue. Karen Hackett has the confidence to present Dorothy without mimicry, her singing is secure and bright and above all she conveys the sense of wonder and of optimism crucial to the character. While colourful costuming and sets from the Kevin Wood Organisation add to the glamour of this production, some thought must be given to its clamour.
The Wizard of Oz continues at the Opera House until April 28th; Box Office: 021 4270022