Somewhere Over the Rainbow [VIDEO AND PHOTO GALLERY]

Be transported to a wonderful world of color and song as students from both and will be performing The Wizard of Oz the weekend of Jan. 13 to 15.  

Originally written by L. Frank Baum, “The Wizard of Oz” was adapted by Frank Gabrielson with music and lyrics of the MGM motion pictures score by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg, and background music by Herbert Stothart. This performance is directed by Arlene Koellner, with Kyla Couture as the musical director and Wendy Malone as the choreographer.

The show consists of many talented actors and actresses in training. They show great strength in not only their acting, but their dancing and singing as well.

Alicia Mello (Dorothy) will remind the audience of Judy Garland as she sings “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” while putting her own stamp on the role. And Mello, a fan of the movie, is excited for the opportunity to play Dorothy.

“I love the movie,” she said. “It’s adorable.” Her favorite part is “Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!”

While staying true to the essence of the story originally written by L. Frank Baum, there have been some additions, like the Jitterbugs who set characters in constant dance. The show is also reminiscent of “The Nutcracker” at times, as it highlights some of the cast’s ballet abilities.

“We put a lot of work into it, and it’s going to be cute,” Mello said. “And it’s not exactly like the movie. It’s going to be a little different.”

Cast members include: Alicia Mello as Dorothy, Shannon Gibson as the Good Witch, Ashley Bortolotti as the Wicked Witch, David Aranjo as Scarecrow, Jordan Wollenhaupt as Tin Man, Bryce McCarthy as Lion, Joe Carlin as Wizard, Abigail Sitte as Gloria, Ashley Snyder as Munchkin Mayor, Bri Hayes as Tibia, Amanda Arns and Joanna Kennedy as Visiting Witches, and many others.

“It’s going to be an amazing show,” said McCarthy as he pulled at his lion’s tail during dress rehearsal Thursday. “It’s going to be funny, there’s going to be a lot of singing here from very talented people, and it’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Shows will be held at the Norton Middle School auditorium, located at 215 W. Main St. Jan.13 and 14 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 15 at 2 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $7 each.

“Come bring the whole family, support the drama club and have a blast,” suggested Bryce.