The Wizard of Oz proves that theater is truly a "family" affair
Latest Lincoln Community Theater Production opens tonight at LCHS

 

[July 28, 2022] 

It has been said that theatre is a family business, and that is the truth for this production of The Wizard of Oz at Lincoln Community Theatre, which opens this week at Lincoln Community High School’s auditorium.

Director John David Pickett has been on stage for LCT before, but is debuting his directing skills at LCT this summer with the help of his mother Sue, playing Aunt Em, and his children Aspen and Willow Smith, in the ensemble and playing munchkins.

Additionally, Kim and Larry Roberts, grandparents of Kailyn Burton, will be on stage together as ensemble, Uncle Henry and Dorothy respectively. Even granddog Moe Roberts gets to be on stage as Toto.

Lincoln’s own Bolton family has graced many a LCT production in the past, this time featuring Sheralyn as The Wicked Witch and Sadie, Zildjian and Brian in the cast as well.

The McFadden family numbers on and off stage with Izzy, Chloe, Logan, Mattea, Charlie and Ellie all playing vital roles in the production.

Two sets of siblings round out our on-stage family trees with the Greens - Mazie, Rafe, and Sloan - and the Kongs - Azul, Jacinth and Magenta.

Parents working backstage and helping with costumes, props, makeup and more complete the look and feel of a family affair where all the cast and crew, numbering over 50, are involved in providing the Lincoln community with a fantastical production.

“The theatre-going experience can transport you away from whatever is going on in the world,” Pickett said, “and this show is no different.

“The cast and staff never stop showing me just how incredible they are. I can’t wait to transport everyone who comes to see this show right to the merry ol’ land of Oz!”
 

Assisting Pickett in the staff is Sheralyn Bolton as assistant director, Oliver Adamson as vocal director, pit conductor Tim Searby, accompanist Julie Kasa, and choreographer Devin Michael Leming with dance captain Sadie Bolton leading the steps.

The set was designed by Jeff Prince, last seen designing the set for LCT’s Arsenic and Old Lace in June. Costume support is led by Dr. Kristen Green with stage management handled by Janet McFadden. Props are being prepared by Bev Noble and makeup by Julie King, Sadie Bolton, and Tegan Follis.

Dorothy, played by Kailyn Burton, and The Wizard, played by David Helm, run lines during a recent rehearsal for The Wizard of Oz, performed by Lincoln Community Theatre July 28-31 at the Lincoln Community High School auditorium.

Dalton Collins’ Tin Man is discovered by Kailyn Burton’s Dorothy in the Lincoln Community Theatre production of The Wizard of Oz

It may take a village or a family to put together a terrific show, and thankfully, LCT is using both.

Performances will begin on Thursday, July 28 at 7:30 pm, continue at 7:30 pm on Friday and Saturday, and conclude on Sunday with a 2 pm matinee.

Tickets are available online at www.lincolncommunitytheatre.org, at the door, or can be reserved via phone at 217-671-6371.

[Jennifer Keith]