The orchestra pit is open and the yellow safety tape stretches the width of the stage at the BHS Performing Arts Center, which can only mean that the fall musical is almost ready to open. Music director Renee Fletcher and the orchestra were performing live during rehearsals this week as lighting director Greg Lynch adjusted his illuminations and director Joe Rand put his flying monkeys through their paces as they prepared to launch their production of “The Wizard of Oz” Friday night.

 

Set designer Rich Kimmerle was everywhere during rehearsals as well, working with the backstage crews on set  and prop changes, and drilling the flying crews on the various airborne aspects of the show (flying house, flying monkey, flying Dorothy and Tin Man, etc., etc.).  Wednesday rehearsals included the large cast all tap-dancing rendition of “Jitterbugs” as well as practice for the head flying monkey (Michelle Johnson), who has to snatch Dorothy out of the enchanted forest and fly her to the castle of the Wicked Witch.

 

Overall, casual observers can detect an air of quiet confidence borne of experience, and the usual rising tide of pure panic that make up the recipe for another fine and vastly entertaining BHS musical (knock wood).

 

“Toto’s OZ-some Party” event that had been set for Saturday, Dec. 12 has been cancelled. Apparently a house landed on some or all of the party planners, leaving the organization no choice but to cancel the festivities.  BHS Drama Booster Club members said there will be after-show photo-ops for youngsters with members of the “Oz” cast, along with some other perks for the young at heart.

 

“The Wizard of Oz” opens a three-day run in the Performing Arts Center at BHS on Fri., Dec. 11 at 7 p.m., with two performances Sat., Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and a closing matinee Sun., Dec. 13 at 2 p.m.  Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $8 for students, senior citizens and military I.D. holders, visit https://app.arts-people.com//index.php?show=59514 to reserve tickets early.  Remaining tickets will go on sale in the PAC lobby one half-hour before show time.