Self-proclaimed ‘The Wonderful’ rightfully earns its title as it invites us to enter an alternative Oz, an Afrofuturistic, multi-dimensional reality in which fierceness, fearlessness and feeling are given new life and meaning.
Suzann McClean and Geoff Aymer rekindle the love for a timeless classic (as many have before – The Wiz being most notable, and recently revived at the Hope Mill Theatre this year) by reimagining ‘The Wizard of Oz’ within an Afrofuturistic landscape. Efe grapples with an overwhelming sense of dislocation as she is swept up in a storm and transported to Ozanda. The hilarious band of friends, Efe (Schoburgh-Crooks), Mane Man (Ubiaro), Manny (Lynch) and Cyri (Bianchi) – and not forgeting TikTok the dog (Chambers) – seek out the ‘Wonderful’ and battle the formidable Queen Aygum to find bravery, intelligence, purpose and sentiment. This alternate reality not only renders our iPhones, AI and 5G network regressive, but also our perceptions of intelligence, identity, self-love, confidence and sexuality.
What is most entertaining is the dynamic lighting, set design and performances: Katrina Russel- Adams’ kaleidoscopic, geometric wonderland encapsulates Aymer’s vision for Ozanda, and coupled with Speechley’s innovative animations, revolving doors, resonant sound effects during the storm and bewitching scenes, produce an immersive visual and auditory rollercoaster. Feel-good tracks, Afrobeat, Hip-Hop hits, and in particular the dynamic break-dancing from the ‘Monkey Force’, create a nostalgic feeling within this futuristic terrain. Jordan Xavier’s refreshing recreation of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’, as well as his other intuitive music selections, represent a fine stylistic blend of traditional musical theatre and up-beat contemporary tracks.
Through dance, song and rich dialogue, ‘The Wonderful’ pushes the narrative of living your most authentic self. Despite race, culture and sexual orientation, our protagonists manifest their desired qualities by venturing out on their own. This production reminds us that there is something truly wonderful about embarking upon a path of self-knowledge, pride and discovery, and the best company for this are surprisingly kindred spirits with rhythm and soul. It is a reminder that even in these times, ‘The Wonderful’ is found within us. All in all, this family comedy musical reinvigorates the audience just in time for Christmas cheer.
Name of Production | The Wonderful
Year of Production | 2021
Venue | Theatre Peckham
Cast | Ashleigh-Mae Schoburgh-Crooks, Ray Emmet Brown, Tarisha Rommick, Amy Bianchi, Kharish Ubiaro, Billy Lynch, Sebastian Chambers
Director | Suzann McLean
Writer | Geoff Aymer
Music/Composer | Jordan Xavier
Designer | Katrina Russel-Adams
Lighting Designer | Tim Speechley
Producers/Production Company | Theatre Peckham
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