By Alayna Een Hanna
Return over the rainbow with the Sundance Mountain Resort’s performance of The Wizard of Oz in Utah. This whimsical and nostalgic story is fun for the whole family, and director M. Chase Grant brings your favorite characters from the screen to the stage. And what a stage! The Sundance Amphitheater is cozily nestled among tall trees and green mountaintops under a clear open sky—just the place to pass a pleasant evening in Oz. Rising to the challenge of an outdoor setup, music director Korianne Johnson ensures that the songs are as unforgettable as always, with the characters’ individual twists.
With the visual experience of the audience in mind and working with the limited set pieces, Graham Whipple has crafted especially clever lighting design. There is something magical about seeing the emblematic rainbow come into view as light against the backdrop of evergreen trees. I also enjoyed the set element at the Wicked Witch’s castle, when the lit rectangle standing in for the door splinters apart as the gang breaks through to rescue Dorothy.
In a nod to the movie, which depicts Kansas in black and white and the Land of Oz in color, Richard Lorig has crafted double-sided backdrops with hints of the iconic Dorothy gingham to subtly complement the set pieces onstage. The Munchkin houses and buildings of Oz bring bursts of color and add substance to the dreamlike experiences of Dorothy and her friends.
With characters that call for tin flesh and green skin, makeup and hair designer Shannon Hutchins has her work cut out for her. But she delivers flawlessly. Similarly, costume designer Spencer Potter pulls out all the stops. Each outfit is a visual feast, from the rich and varied Munchkin costumes to the orderly green garb of the Ozians to the sinister but stylish black of the Wicked Witch to Glinda’s bubble-gum gown. Dorothy’s friends are even more magnificent, and even Dorothy herself trades her classic blue for city green. I found the glowing, gossamer wind sprite outfits and movement in the poppies scene especially captivating, thanks in part to Nathan Balser’s movement coaching. Whether the cast is swirling around the poppy field or skipping across the yellow brick road, his choreography completes the scene.
The cast is vocally well-matched, freshly delivering the classic songs every night. The ensemble’s energy is entertaining, whether as grateful Munchkins or cowering and committed Winkies and in everything in between.
Stella Rose’s Dorothy is loyal, friendly, and wistful. She performs the iconic “Over the Rainbow” song with sweet longing that contrasts with her pending homesickness. All of the main cast members apart from Dorothy play two roles: whimsical Ozians with dusty Kansas counterparts. They do a wonderful job addressing the duality, creating both crossover traits and developing distinction. Anne Blotter’s Aunt Em is sympathetic but conflicted while her Glinda is kind with a splash of sarcasm, which adds some humorous moments. Darin Ashby is Uncle Henry/Emerald City Guard, switching between supportive and sweet and supercilious with a soft spot. Max Higbee’s Cowardly Lion is a little debonair as well as humorous and faithful. Adam Moore contrasts Hunk’s strength with Scarecrow’s limberness—such that I was nearly convinced of his bonelessness. Jeff Sundwall’s Tin Man is anything but rusty, as he expertly and convincingly creaks around onstage. A charismatic but harmless charlatan in both of his roles, Michael Hess portrays both the Wizard and Professor Marvel with snake-oil grace and humor. Meanwhile, Merci Hase is the classic bad neighbor and convincing Wicked Witch.
Although the worst of the weather is baked into the plot, there is always a chance of rain, so come prepared with a blanket and poncho or umbrella—though there are some available for purchase if you forget. You can opt for general seating on the grassy hill or the benches closer to the stage. From the parking lot, you can access the amphitheater through a shuttle or a pleasant 10-minute walk. This family-friendly musical is guaranteed fun for all ages, so hop in your car, find your local yellow brick road, and follow it to the Sundance Mountain Resort for a fun night with The Wizard of Oz!
Sundance Mountain Resort presents The Wizard of Oz
Music and Lyrics from the movie by Harold Arlen
and E.Y. Harburg and book by John Kane, based on The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Sundance Mountain Resort, 8841 N. Alpine Loop Road, Sundance, UT 84604
July 17–August 9, 2025 8 PM
Tickets: $34–56
Contact: 801-225-4107
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