'The Wizard of Oz' ballet comes to Ohio University Eastern in October

The iconic story of "The Wizard of Oz" will be brought from the page to the stage at OHIO Eastern for a special one-night only performance.

Oglebay Institute’s Youth Ballet Company will present an original adaptation of the iconic, well-loved story at 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30, in the Shannon Hall Theater. 

“We are excited and honored to bring the Oglebay Institute to Ohio University Eastern,” said David Rohall, dean of campus and community relations. “This is a great opportunity for the Ohio Valley community, our faculty, staff and students to come together to experience one of the area's premiere artistic venues. I am glad we have the space available on campus to showcase this production and I hope our location can serve as a venue for future performances.” 

The show includes all the favorite characters, Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Wicked Witch, and popular songs like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard.” This original production also features the song “Ease on Down the Road” from the 1978 musical "The Wiz."

With friends, villains and life lessons along the way, the show is a contemporary production featuring dozens of costumed dancers and captivating dances of original choreography. It will also dazzle with special effects, including fire, a melting witch and more.

“For our annual fall ballet, we like to present a popular story that children are familiar with,” said Oglebay Institute Director of Dance Cheryl Pompeo, “Kids get excited about the characters and music they know but get to see the story presented in a new and interesting way. They are introduced to the beauty of dance and observe how dance can be used as a means of self-expression and storytelling.” 

Pompeo added that the show is appropriate for all ages and is a “wonderful way for families to spend quality time together engaging in the arts.” 

Tickets are limited and can be purchased at www.oionline.com, by calling 304.242.7700 or at the door while available. For those buying seats at the door, the box office opens one hour before all shows and can be reached at 304.233.4257. Doors open at 6:30 pm.