Chicago Shakes Announces “Wizard of Oz” Cast and Designers

Chicago Shakes Announces “Wizard of Oz” Cast and Designers

Pictured: Leryn Turlington in a pre-production photo for “The Wizard of Oz.” Photo by Michael Brosilow.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater has announced the cast and design team for its 75-minute musical stage adaptation of the 1939 MGM film “The Wizard of Oz.”

Based on the novel by L. Frank Baum, and featuring music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg, the production is directed by Brian Hill and choreographed by Kenny Ingram. The cast includes Leryn Turlington as Dorothy Gale, alongside Marya Grandy (Hunk/Scarecrow), Joseph Anthony Byrd (Hickory/Tin Man), Jose Antonio Garcia (Zeke/Cowardly Lion), and Derby as Dorothy’s faithful companion, Toto. Appearing as the Wicked Witch of the West/Miss Gulch is Hollis Resnik, with Emily Rohm as Aunt Em/Glinda, William Dick as Professor Marvel/The Wizard of Oz, and Jared D.M. Grant as Uncle Henry/Emerald City Guard. Rounding out the ensemble are Kayla Boye, Timothy P. Foszcz, Haley Gustafson, Aalon Smith, Lauren Smith, Anthony Sullivan, Jr., and Kaleb Van Rijswijck.

The creative team includes Music Director Kory Danielson, Scenic Designer Scott Davis, Costume Designer Theresa Ham, Lighting Designer Lee Fiskness, Sound Designer Christopher M. LaPorte, Projections Designer Mike Tutaj, and Chicago Shakespeare’s resident Wig and Makeup Designer Richard Jarvie. Kevin Reeks serves as Assistant Music Director and Conductor, and Assistant Director/Choreographer is Aaron Umsted.

“The Wizard of Oz” runs July 6-August 25 at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier. For more information visit chicagoshakes.com.

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