The Wizard of Oz

I have no problem saying that a show like The Wizard of Oz isn’t my typical style. However, Little Lake’s production quality really pulled me in with stunning visuals and compelling actors, truly a strong start for their 2026 season, and it truly was fun for all.

Alaina Turocy’s Dorothy shined with a childlike wonder that matured subtly, but impactfully, over the course of the story. I often find that renditions of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" are either mimicry or personalized beyond recognition. But, Turocy’s "Over the Rainbow" was both unique and familiar, perfectly setting the tone for what was to come. The cherry on top of that scene was Lighting Designer Nicole White’s design, one of my favorite moments just for how beautiful it looked.

While the beginning of this story can drag very easily, I do think the actors did their best to keep things interesting. Particularly Mairead Roddy, who we first see as Miss Gulch and later see as the Wicked Witch of the West. Roddy provided well-needed comedic relief during the exposition, with an extra sinister twinge that takes Miss Gulch from a grump to downright cruel and she was cracking me up the whole time.

We’re soon whisked away to Oz with creative lighting and dancing, quickly met by Glinda (Greta Healy) and the Munchkins, played by a wickedly-talented child ensemble. This was the moment that really made the show for me. The passion those kids have is just unmatched, and it’s a really heartwarming thing to witness. “Ding Dong! The Witch is Dead” may have been one of the best numbers in the whole show and was lowkey creepy - in a good way. 

Dorothy (Alaina Turocy), Scarecrow (Timothy Macuski), Tinman (Cole Vecchio), and the Cowardly Lion (Cole McGlumphy), had incredible chemistry together. I especially appreciated Vecchio’s thoughtful commitment to the physicality of Tinman. That group of pals was just endlessly entertaining to watch because you can tell how much fun they’re having together, something that stayed true throughout the entire show.

"Their work is built on trust, collaboration, and a belief that what happens here matters." Patrick Cannon, Artistic Director, and Patti Knapp, Managing Director, via the "Welcome to the Lake!" address in the playbill

I have to give a special shoutout to costume designer Dylan Blussick. All of the costumes were incredible, with unique ensemble outfits, special details, and silly things too (like those green scaly tights for the Wicked Witch!). The Emerald City ensemble looks might have been my favorite of them all - very chic! onStage Pittsburgh did a wonderful deep dive into Dylan and his design, which I highly recommend you go read.

Overall, something like taking an afternoon to watch The Wizard of Oz is the type of thing we need to do in times like these. Maybe the hopecore of it all can be a bit cheesy, but I think we need to stop being so serious all the time and let ourselves enjoy things! This is a classic story with a happy ending, held together by a cohesive group of artists that really shows you that, indeed, some things are bigger than all of us.

I’d end this by saying to go see the show, but Little Lake Theatre’s run of The Wizard of Oz is sold out! Check out their 2026 season lineup to see what they’re up to next. They have a packed season ahead of them!