Review for THE WIZARD OF OZ, Artisan Center Theater

Had I grown up in DFW, I would've hoped to live around the corner from Artisan Center Theater. I can imagine that my young theatre-self would've been enthralled and engrossed in this atmosphere and community! At first arrival, I stumbled upon the rehearsal hall and, for a short while, witnessed a music rehearsal. Initially, I was intrigued by the level of musical strength that I could already see exhibited. Just a few feet north, where the production stage resides, it was evident that diligent rehearsals, such as the one I'd just witnessed, intensify the quality of art being produced. Not only are these young artists earnestly rehearsing, many of them are persistently training as well! They are honing their skills within the classroom setting--at the theatre, at school and via personal dance/acting/singing lessons. At every level, they are professionals who are prepared to go toe-to-toe with any Broadway-trained performer! 

After the show, I met up with two actors in particular who had committed to this lifestyle of theatre at a tender age; two artists whose love and devotion to performing has remained steady as they've grown. Macye Armstrong, who plays Dorothy in the production is among these two individuals. Ms. Armstrong is one of two actresses playing Dorothy within this rotating cast. She happens to be an active member at Artisan, contributing her time with the theatre, as well as it's co-theatre, Artisan Children's Theater . She is favorable to acting, singing and make-up artistry with aspirations of being a theatre teacher, or pursuing a career in the business side of Theatre. She will go very far in her career, that's easy to see. As a talented actress with a gorgeous singing voice and darling personality, any theatre company would benefit from utilizing her attributes. Ms. Armstrong describes Dorothy's character as "curious in nature" and one who "adores the people in her life." Ms. Armstrong can relate to this personally, as she is family-oriented herself with a passion for God and others. 

Secondly, I took note of a young man who has a proficiency in dance and movement. He also has trained from a very young age. Hayden Beaty began his career as a dancer at age 4 and followed through with acting, voice, and even gymnastics throughout his elementary school years. Mr. Beaty plays the Scarecrow, but also acted as full-time choreographer for the entire cast. I might pause to mention, now that both Ms. Armstrong and Mr. Beaty are in high school. While many parents are still trying to instill the values of self-discipline in their teenagers, Mr. Beaty, much like Ms. Armstrong, is taking the initiative and making his mark on the world. Performing has been an adventure for him, and choreographing the show has given him--much like his Scarecrow character--a "new-found freedom." Saying that Mr. Beaty is talented and skilled at acting, singing and especially dancing is an understatement. His solo and dancing number was elegantly fluid, rhythmic and well designed, with every movement motivated and dedicated to the telling of the story. 

THE WIZARD OF OZ is captivating and so very charming! It is lush with beautiful voices, lively dancing, interchangeably creative sets and costume designs and the cutest, sweetest little Toto (played by Einstein) that you've ever seen! This Artisan Center Theater experience is one to cherish .It's family-friendly all around, even the flying monkeys were cute. For showtimes and theatre information, visit their website at https://www.artisanct.com/