REVIEWS FOR BEFORE OZ

 “Before Oz intrigues and inspires as the story behind the story plays out in front of a crowd destined for laughs and tears alike. As L. Frank Baum's life unfolded on stage, I found a sense of wonder evoked and embers of ambition stoked within myself. Before Oz has depth, polish, and maturity of a script developed over decades.” - Nick Linn, President of Linnflux, Hershey, PA.

“I think Before Oz has so much going for it. I can see the playwright immersed herself in research, and there is so much richness in each of the scenes. The characterization in Before Oz is wonderful, with a wide cast of characters. The chemistry between husband and wife is especially great! And I love the idea that Maud was ultimately responsible for Frank recognizing his own potential.” - Robert Caisley, University of Idaho Chair of Theatre Arts, Professor of Theatre, and Head of Dramatic Writing, Moscow, ID.

“Fantastic show! Very engaging! I couldn't wait for what came next, and the end of both acts brought me to tears. The layout of the story in narrative form and the cameos of the characters from the book beside the real story were very effective. It is such an interesting history of a man whose work is a household name but whose life is completely unknown to most today. Bravo for taking up this story and giving credit to one who has given so much joy to the world!” – Diana Meyers, Orthodontist and mother of four student actors, Hummelstown, PA.

“We are a small school still struggling to recover our audience after Covid, and this play gave us our largest attendance since 2020. People raved about the story and told their friends. Those that saw it, loved it… and those that missed it have a new resolve to come to our next show because of what they’ve heard they missed.

My students gave it all they had to portray these characters. Anything less would have been an insult to their love of the story. The joy and laughter the audience felt watching the brainless scarecrow or coward of a lion could be clearly heard backstage. And the circumstances and sadness for the tin man to not have a heart left the audience, and cast, in tears each performance. Intermission was used to fix more than one student’s mascara.

As a director, I have spent hours looking for ‘that one script’ that will click with audience and students alike. This was the best fit I’ve had in years!” - Steve Pruitt, teacher and director, Topeka, IN.