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Audiences can follow Dorothy along the Yellow Brick Road during multiple performances of “The Wizard of Oz” this month at the Cal State East Bay theater.
In these shows, the Kansas-dwelling protagonist is whisked away to a magical land where she teams up with a scarecrow, tin man and cowardly lion and must discover a way home.
Put on by the Royal Theater Academy, a family educational theater company based in Dublin, the shows combine a classic story of friendship and courage with futuristic elements.
“We wanted to create something truly special for our audience,” RTA director Trenton Torain said in a statement. “As we all strive to change and grow, the story of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ teaches us that embracing our true selves can lead to extraordinary adventures.”
As the company’s largest production yet, its two casts are composed of about 110 performers across multiple generations. Meanwhile, RTA’s average production has a total of 70 to 80 people.
The massive cast equates to high-energy performances, board director and performer Mary Grace Gomilla explained.
“There’s a lot of life in the show because there are so many people giving life to the scenes,” Gomilla said.
Following an excess of signups, RTA switched its performances from Livermore High School — where it has held shows in recent years — to Cal State East Bay.
In addition to extra room, the college’s professional-level theater allows RTA to implement more effects into the show.
“With our return to Cal State East Bay, we’re able to explore more creative possibilities and offer a visually stunning experience,” Torain said in a statement. “This fusion allows us to honor the classic story while also pushing the boundaries of traditional community theater.”
One of the tech highlights is projection mapping, a method used to cast images that mirror an actor’s movements, Gomilla said.
The production will also feature flying performers, colorful costumes and intricate set designs with original backgrounds created by graphic artist Dave Werner.
Of particular interest to Gomilla — who is cast as The Wicked Witch — the jitterbug scene is especially exciting. During that scene members from both casts bring energetic dance to the stage.
Six productions of “The Wizard of Oz” are scheduled at Cal State East Bay between this weekend (Jan. 11-12) and Jan. 17-19. The performance on Jan. 17 will be ASL-interpreted. Tickets are available for purchase at royaltheateracademy.com.
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