Experience the magic of the Wizard of Oz like never before! Join Dorothy, Scarecrow and friends on a vibrant journey at The Judy, filled with unforgettable music and heartwarming lessons.
Grab your booster seats and that little dog too, because audiences are off to see The Wizard of Oz. Crowds lined up at the door inside the The Judy Center for Youth Arts for Northwest Children’s Theater’s unique and colorful take on this classic. We were lucky enough to go the opening weekend, and the energy was palpable. One little theater goer was even signing “We’re off to see the wizard,” as we filed in to grab benches and boosters.
Concession specials for this event include Wizard of Oz plushies, colorful lollipops, and a close-up view of Dorothy’s dress while you wait in line (pictured below). My kiddo chose a decidedly un-cowardly Lion for $10, (the Dorothys sold out fast!).
The set is notable for its vibrant green Oz marquee backed with movable gold brick stage blocks that reminded us of Mario — in a good way. Prior to the opening number, the audience is reminded that this performance will include actors in the aisle, including a real-life Toto. Note to tiny hands: Please do not touch the actors. Toto’s contract does not include petting.
The Wizard of Oz is a grander musical than some families may be used to at The Judy, with an expanded cast and run time. I recommend special attention to the chorale members, including the adorable dancing Munchkins and the show-stealing crows as they attack the Scarecrow.
“It was kind of funny when it went from the older version to the new version,” commented my son in a running commentary of the play’s use of multimedia in a throwback to the original black-and-white Kansas (pictured below). Concern, as usual, surrounded star pup, Toto: “Noooo, noooo when will they save Toto?!” he cried as the evil neighbor came to collect the little dog. “I hope Toto’s OK.”
As the show moves on into live action, I enjoyed watching this classic through a Generation Alpha lens. “Oh no, Dorothy,” my kid said, as she was sucked in by the tornado. “Wait. Did she teleport into a new world?”
Ding dong, there was dancing in the stands as we grooved with singing munchkins in our head, though the witch scaring them was met with consternation. “They’re very scared,” I was told of the trembling munchkins. It was also noted that the apple trees on the yellow brick road were, “very rude.”
In a smart edit from the cinematic original, The Judy cast replaces the movie’s poppy scene with the more lively Jitterbug dance, and then heads into intermission, where we absolutely needed a refill on both popcorn and drinks, and a bathroom break, too. The second half runs a bit shorter than the first part, punctuated by a melting death scene worthy of Zootopia’s Judy Hop. Hang tight for a full cast sing-along-at the end, and remember that there’s no place like home.
If You Go
The Wizard of Oz
Where: The Judy Kafoury Center for Youth Arts
1000 SW Broadway, Suite T-100 (with attached parking garage!)
When: Saturdays-Sundays, November 29-January 4; shows are at 11:30 am and 3 pm. There’s a special ASL interpreted performance on Sunday, December 7 at 11:30 am
Length: 90 minutes, including one intermission
Who: Most enjoyed by ages 5 and up
Tickets: $30 for youth and $40 for adults; infants 1 and under are free.
Get tickets here
Know before you go: Parking at The Judy is easiest in the attached parking garage. The Schnitzer Stage at the Judy is general admission seating only, so show up early if you’d like your pick of seats. Boosters are available, so every seat is a great one even for the youngest audience members. Outside food and drinks aren’t permitted, but reasonably priced snacks are available at the concessions stand. Clean, gender inclusive restrooms and changing stations make it easy for families to attend. The entire staff is friendly and helpful should you need assistance.
Bonus Family Adventure!
Make a day of it downtown by combining your Judy visit with a trip to local artist Mike Bennett’s free family-friendly Snow Day Scavenger Hunt. Visit Snow Day Village for your map entry and find the Gilly the Goldfish before for a Portland Aquarium surprise, before or after you see the play.
Scavenger hunt runs 11 am – 7 pm daily through January 3, and begins at Snow Day Village at 815 SW Park Ave.