Mothers and fathers and children, oh my! Panorama Theatre Company’s current production of The Wizard of Oz, features an incredible number of Mornington Peninsula family members sharing the stage in a fabulous cast of sixty players.
Bill Faulkner (Scarecrow) performs along side his daughters, Jessica (Dorothy) and Lizzy, while Geoffrey Bonwick (Wizard of Oz) also has two daughters, Miranda and Melanie in the production.
Rachel Lomulder (Glinda) plays alongside her daughter Claire. Liz Catford (Wicked Witch) acts with daughter, Zoe. The play is co-directed by mother and son team, Ros and Jeff Williams. Even Toto is a cast member’s family pet!
Panorama Theatre Company was founded in 1979 as a youth theatre group aiming to give young people a chance to perform and advance under the mentorship of more mature actors emphasizing cross-generational friendships, personal development and self-confidence – all qualities that are integral to The Wizard of Oz tale. Their latest production showcases their wealth of talent.
On the 115th anniversary of L. Frank Baum’s classic novel and the 75th anniversary of the iconic film, it’s heartening to see that the quest for courage, knowledge and home still resonate so strongly. Better yet, seeing that played out by families for families locally.
See The Wizard of Oz at Frankston Arts Centre Friday 17 April at 7.30pm, Saturday 18 April at 7.30pm or Sunday 19 April at 2pm.
Bookings: 9784 1060 or www.thefac.com.au