'The Wizard of Oz' comes to Harvest Christian Academy
Harvest Christian Academy heads over the rainbow this week in the classic Broadway version of “The Wizard of Oz.”
Performances are at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, April 16-17, and 11 a.m. Saturday, April 18, at Elgin Community College's Blizzard Theatre, Building H, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Tickets are $12.
Consisting of colorful costumes, sets, and some onstage theater magic, this classic story with familiar characters is designed to appeal to all ages.
Leading lady Paige Abbatacola, who could not speak until she was nearly 5 years old, beautifully leads the way as Dorothy Gale of Kansas.
“It's an honor to be playing such an iconic role,” Paige said. “This experience has been such a great opportunity to learn and expand my knowledge of performing. I love the character Dorothy because of the relatable qualities she holds.”
The cast includes several talented seniors who will graduate in May: Tyler Newman (Lion), Stevie Woods (Emerald City Guard), Lilli Abbatacola (Wicked Witch), Josiah Balaguer (Wizard), and Kate Dolan (floor manager).
“To play the cowardly lion feels terrific, and it is bittersweet that this is my last show as an HCA Lion,” Tyler Newman said.
Senior Kate Dolan who chose to take a leadership role backstage as floor manager is finishing her career at HCA with her sixth show.
“I feel HCA drama has changed me as a person, made me confident and taught me to work as a team,” Dolan said. “Of course, I also love all of the friends I have made.” She will be attending Liberty University in Virginia in the fall.
On her way to Liberty this fall as well, Wicked Witch Lilli Abbatacola, covered in wicked green, says her goodbyes.
“The Wicked Witch is one of my favorite characters,” Lilli said. “I love her back story and the other iconic women that have played her. I feel HCA has launched me into a career of creativity.”
The cast, involving students from fourth-graders to seniors, has been working hard since early January and is excited to share this classic, beloved story directed by Naomi Allen.
For the first time in the school's history, the show will be performed at Elgin Community College's Blizzard Theatre. Tickets are available for $12 online at tickets.elgin.edu/ and at the door.
If you go
What: Harvest Christian Academy's production of “The Wizard of Oz”
When: 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, April 16-17; 11 a.m. Saturday, April 18
Where: Blizzard Theatre, Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin
Tickets: $12 at the door or online at <a href="http://tickets.elgin.edu/">tickets.elgin.edu/</a>