Review by Val O’Bryan, Front Row Reviewers
Known as “Broadway in the Canyon,” a trip to Tuacahn Amphitheatre is more than just a night at the theater—it’s a full-sensory experience that blends the majesty of nature with the magic of live performance. The Wizard of Oz at Tuacahn is a must-see event that deserves a top spot on your summer vacation plans..
Tucked within the breathtaking red rock canyons of St. George, Utah, Tuacahn Amphitheatre delivers a one-of-a-kind outdoor theater experience. With cutting-edge production technology and unforgettable special effects, each performance takes place beneath a sweeping canopy of stars. The natural surroundings amplify the wonder of director Michael Heitzman’s vision, turning every moment into a theatrical escape where Broadway-level talent meets the peace and beauty of the desert landscape. The scenic design (Nate Bertone) and projection design (Bryce Cutler) transform the canyon into a magical place, full of color and whimsy.
The Wizard of Oz is based on the classic 1939 motion picture, following the story of Dorothy Gale (Mollie-Claire Matthews), a young girl living on a Kansas farm with her Aunt Em (Jillian Butler) and Uncle Henry (Randal Keith). Dorothy deeply relies on her beloved dog, Toto (Mr. Baum), for comfort and companionship—especially after a tense encounter with her unpleasant neighbor, Miss Gulch (Julie Cardia), who threatens to take Toto away after a scuffle. Dorothy feels friendless and abandoned, despite the caring farm hands Zeke (Nick Berninger), Hickory (Davey Burton Midkiff), and Hunk (Eric B. Anthony), and decides to run away. After meeting a nurturing Professor Marvel (Fred Inkley), Dorothy resolves to go home and make things right. However, when a tornado strikes, Dorothy is swept away to the magical land of Oz. There, she meets Glinda the Good Witch and learns that to return home, she must follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City and ask the Wizard of Oz for help.
Along the way, Dorothy befriends a Scarecrow in search of a brain, a Tin Man who longs for a heart, and a Cowardly Lion who seeks courage. The characters in Oz are played by the same characters in Dorothy’s Kansas home, so keep an eye out for connections. The actors playing Dorothy’s three companions face the challenge of playing very physical characters. Eric B. Anthony nailed the role—what the scarecrow lacks in brains, he makes up for with plenty of floppy finesse. Anthony demonstrates great stamina in maintaining the tumbling clumsiness throughout the show. Davey Burton Midkiff’s Tinman may be heartless on paper, but his performance was full of metal and mettle. Let’s not forget the Cowardly Lion (Nick Berninger), who hits all the same notes and characteristic warmth of the beloved original, but in summer heat, in prosthetics and a mane. Truly, the entire cast must be commended for the dazzling display they put on in the warm summer desert.
Marie-Claire Matthews’ Dorothy shines throughout all the musical numbers, including Over the Rainbow, a particularly difficult and technical song that has challenged great vocalists since Judy Garland’s historic performance. Matthews’ version is endearing and wistful and perfect for the scene. Jillian Butler’s Glinda floats in on her bubble with scene-stealing sparkle, and her perfectly practiced chortle is pure magic. The friction and timing between Glinda and the Wicked Witch of the West (Julie Cardia) is hysterical. The two share great chemistry. Cardia conjures the Wicked Witch with a chilling cackle and spellbinding physicality, channeling the classic villain with unforgettable flair.
The ensemble members (Charles Antenen, Andre Darnell Myers, Bella Depoaula, Stephen Diaz, Harley James Dixon, James Everts, Hannah Hubbard, Jackson Hurt, Fred Inkley, Halily Rose Kasky, Randal Keith, Abby Linderman, Ameena Mckenzie, Mallorie Mendoza, Kayden Oliver, Daryn Polzin, Andy Richardson, Anthony Savino, Kelsey Lee Smith, Alec Talbott, Resse Wheeler, Scott Whipple, Jacob Beaver, Delaney Gold, Mariel Harris, and Jack Taylor) are extremely busy in this production, playing munchkins, flying monkeys (Yes, thanks to Paul Rubin, they fly!), Winkie Guards, and citizens of Emerald City. The fantastical and exquisite costumes by designer Ryan Moller help to establish the different populations and create visually distinctive communities. The gowns worn by Glinda and the Wicked Witch of the West are particularly stunning, with lots of layers and textures that signify they are the queens of their respective domains. The choreography (Robbie Roby) does more than dazzle—it sets the stage for every scene, using movement to establish location, reveal emotion, and bring the world of Oz vividly to life. From the joyful twirls of Munchkinland to the frantic urgency of the Haunted Forest, each step tells part of the story. Puppet Designer Scott Molampy adds an enchanting layer of theatrical magic with his larger-than-life creations, bringing whimsical wonder and imaginative depth to the world of Oz.
Tuacahn’s The Wizard of Oz is a heartwarming adventure filled with wonder, courage, and timeless truths that shine as brightly as a rainbow. With show-stopping performances, imaginative choreography, and dazzling visual effects set against the majestic red rock backdrop, this production sweeps audiences from the simplicity of Kansas to the magical vibrance of Oz. At its core, it’s a story about friendship, self-discovery, and the powerful reminder that what we seek is often already within us. Whether you’re revisiting this beloved classic or seeing it for the first time, this enchanting production offers a magical escape for all ages. Brave the heat (don’t worry—refreshments and snow cones await!) and follow the yellow brick road to an unforgettable night under the stars.
Tuacahn Center for the Arts presents The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum, music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg
Tuacahn Amphitheater, 1100 Tuacahn Drive, Ivins, Utah 84738
June – October 23, 2025, Performance dates and times vary
Tickets: $44-$124
Contact: 800-746-9882
Tuacahn Facebook Page
Wizard of Oz Reel
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