MCT set for Wizard of Oz performances

Follow the cast and crew of Milam Community Theater down the yellow brick road as they perform their 2022 Summer Musical, “The Wizard of Oz.”

The stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale and the iconic musical score from the MGM film features Dorothy Gale as she travels over the rainbow into the magical Land of Oz, along the way meeting friends and foes alike. There’s something for everyone in this “sure-to-entertain” production! 

The performances are directed by Jigar Bhakta of Cameron. Takenya Battle of Temple is the music director and choreography by Clarice Kocian of Rockdale.

“Seeing parents and grandparents act alongside their children and grandchildren or even seeing the cast and crew become a family is the magic of community theater,” said Bhakta. “But even more so, it makes me happy to inspire and encourage individuals to embrace their creativity and emphasize a community of culture.”

The diverse cast and crew hail from all over Milam and surrounding counties and range in age from youth to adults with years of experience to little-to-none.

One of those players making his acting debut is James Henderson in the role of Lion. He is an assistant principal for Cameron Junior High.

“At first, I was a little hesitant to do it,” said Henderson.

He also went on to explain that he is constantly on his kids about expanding their horizons. And when they told him it was his turn to try, Henderson went to auditions vying for the role of Lion.

“It gives you a greater appreciation for the theater altogether,” he said.

Performances will be held at C.H. Yoe High School Performing Arts Center located at 1000 North Fannin Avenue in Cameron. Show dates and times are: Saturday, July 30 at 6 p.m.; Sunday, July 31 at 2 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 6 at 6 p.m.; and Sunday, Aug. 7 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available online at mct.ticketleap.com or at the door. Ticket sales are expected to be high, it is suggested that tickets be purchased in advance. Prices are $18 for adults and $12 for youth.

“You won’t want to miss this fun-filled musical adventure!”