By Hazel Scott/ASU
ASU music faculty, alumni, and current graduate students are bringing summer magic to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival (ASF) with their involvement in "The Wizard of Oz" production, a delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum's classic. The All-ASU pit orchestra, conducted by ASU adjunct music professor Dr. Joel Jones, provides the iconic musical score from the MGM film, where Dorothy travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz.
“As part of a vibrant musical community in Montgomery, the music faculty at ASU plays professionally throughout the year with several local and regional orchestras, helping to spread the reach and reputation of the University to the greater community in and around Montgomery. Through this type of networking, ASU music students benefit greatly from internship opportunities and practical experience learning from and shadowing faculty members out in the field while learning the profession,” said Dr. Carly Johnson, professor of music and chair of the Music Department.
Running through August 17 at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival Theatre in Montgomery, this 46-show production features orchestrations by Larry Wilcox. The live music, including "Over the Rainbow" and "We’re Off to See the Wizard," is integral to bringing the beloved tale to life. The songs were originally scored for the 1939 movie version by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg.
All-ASU Pit Orchestra Members:
- Joel Jones: conductor, piano
- Michael Westmoreland, associate professor of music: flute, piccolo, clarinet, bass clarinet, saxophone
- Brenda Luchsinger, associate professor of music: french horn
- Carly Johnson: trumpet, flugelhorn
- Jonathan Houghtling, assistant professor of music: trombone
- Jocelyn Stovall, adjunct instructor of music and director of gospel choir: synthesizer
- Darrian Stovall, ASU alumnus: synthesizer
- Andy Martin, current ASU M.Ed. graduate: percussion
“Complementing elaborate set designs and costumes, the orchestrations by Larry Wilcox help bring Munchkinland and the Emerald City to life playfully and triumphantly,” Johnson added.
Ticket Information & ASU Music Program
For "The Wizard of Oz" tickets, visit the Alabama Shakespeare Festival website or call 334-271-5353.
For more information on the ASU Music program, including community lessons, contact the ASU Music Office at 334-229-4341 or music@alasu.edu.