The Wizard of Oz: Special Needs Show

People with special needs and their families are cordially invited to a free performance of The Wizard of Oz presented by Rising Star Theatreworks at 7 p.m. on February 9 at the new Batavia Fine Arts Centre.

Rising Star Theatreworks has been opening its final dress rehearsal as a "Special Night for Special Friends" for each show since 2008. “It has always been a dream of mine to involve more people with special needs in theater,” says Jeanne O’Donnell, co-founder of Rising Star. “I understand that some people are reluctant to attend events where the audience is supposed to stay quiet and only applaud at appropriate times.” Through this special invitation, Rising Star is striving to create an environment where it is okay if an audience member shouts out during the show or even sings along.

Follow Dorothy as she ventures over the rainbow and down the yellow brick road to find The Wizard of Oz. After being whisked away from her Kansas farmhouse by a twister, Dorothy finds herself in a magical and technicolor land. As she tries to find her way home, Dorothy befriends a Scarecrow, whose “head is full of stuffin’,” an empty-chested Tinman, and a “dandelion” of a Lion. Rediscover the story of Oz with this whimsical musical—but keep your eyes out for the Wicked Witch of the West and her winged monkeys!

The Wizard of Oz is directed by RST artistic director and co-founder Jeanne O'Donnell. Vocal director is Dawn Harkins. Choreographer is Paula Venckus and music director is Joe Blomquist. The musical features cast members in grades 3 through 9 from Batavia, Geneva and St. Charles.

There is no charge to attend. To reserve tickets for "Special Night for Special Friends," contact Nancy E. Hansen at (630) 845-9165 or HansConsulting@aol.com. There are a limited number of wheelchair spaces available, so please indicate in your message if anyone in your party requires a wheelchair space. Tickets will be distributed at the door the evening of the performance.

Rising Star Theatreworks is a not-for-profit community theatre group known for inspiring young people to become involved in theatre and for providing the community with quality theatre at affordable prices. The Wizard of Oz is presented through special arrangements with Tams-Witmark Music Library.