One of “the most watched films in the world” celebrates its 80th anniversary this year and The Algarveans Experimental Theatre Group is commemorating the occasion by staging “The Wizard of Oz” in November in Lagoa.
In this family classic, young Dorothy Gale is a Kansas farm girl who dreams of a land “somewhere over the rainbow”. A tornado transports Dorothy and her dog, Toto, to a bright and magical world where she accidentally makes a mortal enemy of the Wicked Witch of the West. In the Land of Oz, she befriends a scarecrow in need of a brain, a tin man missing a heart and a cowardly lion who lacks courage, and together they have many adventures along the Yellow Brick Road which leads to the Emerald City. There they plan to implore the all-powerful Wizard of Oz to grant them all their heart’s desire.
Director Karen Barroso leads a cast of more than 30 actors from all over the Algarve in this production. “As a dancer, musicals are in my blood. I’ve wanted to direct ‘The Wizard of Oz’ for many years and love the idea of bringing more children into the theatre.”
The Algarveans have always encouraged inclusivity and participation from the local community and there are many new members – young and old – in this cast. The group boasts a multi-cultural membership, although all productions are performed in English. If you would like to tread the boards or stretch your creativity by helping with set, costumes or backstage, visit their website – www.thealgarveans.com
This is the first musical in six years for The Algarveans and rehearsals have been underway since July. Choreographer Shelly Kenny is teaching dances to go along with the magical melodies while production crew are diligently creating whimsical sets and designing colourful costumes.
“For 80 years, this story has given faithful service to the young at heart and time has been powerless to put its kindly philosophy out of fashion. To those of you who have been faithful to it in return and to the young at heart, we dedicate this production,” said Karen Barroso.
“The Wizard of Oz” will be performed in English at the 300-seat Carlos do Carmo Auditorium in Lagoa from November 21 to 23 at 7.45pm with a matinee on the 23rd at 2pm. Tickets cost €10 and are available at the auditorium box office, all Worten and FNAC stores or online at www.ticketline.pt
“Two” by Jim Cartwright
In addition to the normal repertoire of plays and social events, The Algarveans is presenting a new format of rehearsed play readings.
Unlike conventional theatre that depends on sets and costumes, the vocal delivery and gestures of the actors on the naked stage become the focus of the audience.
In “Two” by Jim Cartwright, described as a “riotous and poignant comedy”, Tracey Christiansen and Paul Kloegman will bring multiple colourful characters to life, as they drink, flirt and fight in a boisterous pub in Northern England. The performance will take place this Saturday, October 5, at the Carvoeiro Tennis Club at 7.45pm.
There will also be an opportunity to socialise, have a drink and discuss how The Algarveans could take this type of event forward.
There will be a bar available to purchase drinks. Tickets are free for members and friends of The Algarveans but are limited
and must be reserved in advance.
