Kentwood Players is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year with a delightful program of plays including a joyous musical prodution of The Wizard of Oz, currently running through December 12 at Kentwood Playhouse. The Wizard of Oz was chosen to honor the 70th anniversary of the MGM film classic.
Director, Meredith Sweeney, is rightfully excited about the "Munchkin wrangling" efforts of parents, families, young actors and crew members alike who participated in the success of this absolutely charming production and her debut as a director. The cast of 24 kids ranging in age from 6 - 16 are all part of Kentwood Kids, a weekly workshop where kids learn all about theater, from acting to auditioning, stage production and design. Kentwood Kids Instructor, Drew Fitzsimmons, enthusiastically explained that the group, which began with 7 kids, now has over 70 participants. The speed with which the kids learn their lines and their innate ability to remain unperturbed when problems arise always impress him. He says that through learning the nuts and bolts of acting, they also grow and mature. Newcomers are welcomed by all the members with support and encouragement to do their best and have fun.
Kentwood Players Publicity Director, Shari Barrett, introduced me to some of the young stars: ten-year old Camilla Vietina, who plays Dorothy, spoke with the poise and experience of a young actor who has already performed in three previous plays. "Acting is fun," she says, and she is looking forward to auditioning for her next role. Cowardly Lion, played by Francesca Farina, trembled and wimpered on stage, but has no lack of courage in real life! She's all smiles when she remarks how wonderful it is to be on stage and perform. And who can resist a pup? When the question of Toto's role came up, Meredith decided that Toto would be played by an actor as well and auditions were held. Rather than singing or dancing, six-year old Karine Trapenard landed the part in her own way -- with an unforgettable "ARF!"-- thus delighting us all with an unforgettable Toto. Other cast members include Monica Allan, Amanda Araque, Madison Browning, Makenzie Browning, Elizabeth Cruz, Samantha Cruz, Ella Cunningham, Madison Dewberry, Emma Erenmark, Rachel Evans, Ezekiel Fredericks, Logan Hannig, Trinity King, Kobe Kubes, Steven Lerner, Hayley Novack, Valentina Povolo, Josiah Taylor, Alan Tapenard and Rocio Vietina.
The Scarecrow (Amanda Araque), Dorothy (Camilla Vietina), Tin Man (Emma Erenmark), Cowardly Lion (Francesca Farina) and Toto (Karine Trapenard) search for their hearts desires at the end of the rainbow.
(Picture and text from Kentwood Players Flyer)
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, written by L. Frank Baum, and originally published on May 17, 1900, is acclaimed as a classic childrens novel. As I was watching it, singing along to Somewhere Over the Rainbow -- which by the way I chose as my wedding theme -- I thought to myself, it's more than a childrens novel. It is a classic in the true sense of the word with the universal theme that true friendship is often all it takes to reveal what we wometimes believe we don't possess, what already lies deep within each of us -- heart, courage and brains -- and the desire to live our dreams. In any case, that is the general conclusion of one young actor who says, "The best thing about Kentwood Kids is making friends!" Out of the mouth of babes.
The Wizard of Oz is playing at the Kentwood Playhouse in Westchester, CA 90045, with two perfomances at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on December 12. To purchase tickets, call (310) 645-5156 or visit www.kentwoodplayers.org
