GNA CAMPUS — The arts at Greater Nanticoke Area School District are back and better than ever! Over the last six months, students across all grades at GNA have been working day and night to produce a shocking, yet exhilarating show for the community. With the help of Mr. David Baker and crew, the GNA theatre department was able to work on and perform the infamous show: The Wizard of Oz. 

In the story, The Wizard of Oz, a young girl named Dorothy must travel the yellow brick road to the Emerald City. Along the way, she makes three wonderful friends that help her learn the true meaning of home. Together, Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Lion skip all the way to the huge door that guards the enormous city that is only known to be fantasy. Once there, the only emotion the Fab Four have left is anticipation. The four buddies ultimately end up with their desires for a home, a brain, a heart, and a nerve with the gracious aid of The Great and Powerful Wizard of Oz.

The Wizard of Oz opened its curtains for the public on Saturday, March 11, and Sunday, March 12, 2023. As a student journalist, I had the pleasure of going to see this show while also receiving the opportunity to experience some of the behind-the-scenes action during performances for the Kennedy and Elementary buildings. 

I personally believe that the performers of The Wizard of Oz were cast perfectly. Firstly, sophomore Ryan Ortiz played the part of the Cowardly Lion phenomenally. His voice captures Lion’s personality to a T. Secondly, the Tinman, played by freshman Samaya Carden, was absolutely wonderful! When Samaya’s song for the Tinman began and then they belted out such a powerful note at the end, I was mesmerized. 

Then we have another sophomore, Mateo Ricci, who played the Scarecrow. Frankly, I’m convinced that Mateo was born to play this role because of the way he expressed the character on stage and voiced his lines so well. Lastly, we have the magnificent Maura Jenceleski, who played young Dorothy Gale. Watching Maura play this role and sing the iconic, “Over the Rainbow” was truly magical. She played this role with charisma and grace. Maura was funny on stage and really seemed to capture the essence of Dorothy Gale. 

Overall I have to give this play a 13/10! Let’s keep supporting the arts here at GNA as they continue to put on more performances for the community!