Charming 'Wizard' is sure to delight children and adults

WIZARD OF OZ, through April 16, SCERA Showhouse II, Orem (225-2569). Running time: two hours (one intermission).

OREM — There are at least five reasons the SCERA's "Wizard of Oz" is a success.

Because . . . the pacing is quick. There's never a dead moment.

Because . . . the kids are so cute (and the little dog, too).

Because . . . the set is original, creative and lends itself to lightning fast scene changes.

Because . . . The lead actors are so into their characters, it's just plain fun to watch.

Because . . . the ruby slippers are a wonderfully modern version of a stacked heel.

In addition, the flying system is a wonderful, seemingly effortless addition that helps create a believable tornado of swirling light, flying monkeys, a suspended Good Witch and a wizard's hot-air balloon exit. When the witch is carried up on her bicycle and when the monkeys whiz across the sky, it's breathtaking.

All in all, this production is thoroughly enjoyable.

Kudos to the director (Mindy B. Young), the set designer and the choreographer.

Not only is everything crisp and clean, there's a fair amount of inventiveness that keeps the interest up in a classic, well-known show that could easily be way too predictable.

For instance, Dorothy is dressed in a scarf-point blue-checked outfit. The Lion is in a sort of funky, homespun leisure suit.

The set is a collage of draped huge boards that, once uncovered, reveal bright colors and patterns that work well as a backdrop for a whole set of changing circumstances. The cutout in the middle of the road works to the show's advantage.

The live sculpted trees sing and talk and move like the Supremes, while the flying monkeys do back flips and some break dancing.

There's a wonderful blend of the new and old here.

The "Jitterbug" number, cut from the movie, is fun and gives Dorothy a chance to shine as a dancer.

The children are well-used throughout, as well. They start out as the colorful, giggly Munchkins and become bright red poppies, snow, residents of Emerald City and monkeys.

They're nicely showcased and, thus, they add a whimsical element that makes the story work.