This week kicked off our annual spring musical “The Wizard of Oz.” With this play breaking many Fuquay records, it’s no surprise that the whole school’s talking about it. Between the adorable munchkins, sold-out opening night, and the largest cast ever, 2023’s “Wizard of Oz” will be one to remember.

Thursday night marked the first-ever opening night to be completely sold out with over 600 tickets sold. However, if you missed opening night there are still three shows you can catch. Friday night’s showing at 7 p.m. has around 50 tickets available at $10 each. On Saturday, there will be two showings, one at 2 p.m. and one at 7 p.m. There are currently 50 tickets left for each of those showings as well. I recommend grabbing your tickets quickly because they do sell out fast.

To no one’s surprise, the show was a hit causing the seats to go fast. Between the visually appealing sets, colorful costumes, and outstanding acting there’s something for everyone when it comes to this performance.

Our theater department is known for putting on well-done spring musicals, but this one definitely took the cake.

While it may come as a shock due to her believable and beautiful performance, our leading lady, Lauren McNamara who played Dorothy Gale, is only a sophomore. Her portrayal was so captivating and charming that you could almost mistake her for Judy Garland.

“It was amazing. I feel like we’re all a family,” stated McNamara. 

Not only did Dorothy charm the audience but so did the hysterical Cowardly Lion, played by senior Ryan Seaman.

“Oh my gosh this was amazing and just perfection, especially with the show being sold out on my last opening night ever,” stated Seaman.

The play also had the unique opportunity to highlight future Bengals. Since it requires munchkins, auditions were opened to the public. Over 100 kids tried out with 60 earning the coveted role of munchkin. Eight-year-old Hattie Smith didn’t have a lot to say due to it being past her bedtime, but she did enjoy her experience.

“It was really fun and I’m going to do theater when I’m in high school,” said Smith.

The actors dazzled the stage with their skills, but you must give credit where credit is due. Paige MacGovern and Tyler Cole were the orchestrators behind this masterpiece. MacGovern was the director and Cole musical director.

“It’s a huge class, so just being able to help coordinate that is really cool,” stated Cole.

Opening night was obviously a success and you don’t want to miss your chance to see this show, so make sure to get your tickets for either Friday or Saturday. 

A big thanks to the cast and crew for bringing the show to life, and as the Seamen couldn’t yell loud enough, “Roll Bengals.”