Photo credit: Curtis FisherVICTORVILLE – Phil 413 Productions brought the musical “The Wiz” to the stage at the Cultural Arts Center of the High Desert. The production featured live musicians, energetic choreography and a cast of performers from across the High Desert.
The show drew loud applause after nearly every song.
The musical ran from Feb. 27 through March 8, bringing the beloved Broadway and film classic to local audiences.
The story follows Dorothy’s journey through the Land of Oz as she encounters unforgettable characters and discovers courage, friendship and self-confidence.
Director Amber Valentina said the live performance and music helped make the High Desert production stand out.
“Real musicians playing in real time, bringing the music and energy of the show to life right in front of you,” Valentina said. “There’s nothing like the electricity of live theater and you truly have to experience it in person.”
Choreographed by Precious Henderson and musically directed by Kenneth LaRue, the production blends powerful vocals, energetic dance numbers and colorful staging to create an immersive theatrical experience.
The stage production features a cast of High Desert performers bringing “The Wiz” to life.
The show stars Coree Sparks as Dorothy, Kenneth LaRue as the Scarecrow, Tierra Emoni as the Lion and Corey Mitchell as the Tinman. Additional cast members include Kendall Lynn as Aunt Em, Ronda Hunt as Addaperle, Tamara Harkley as Evillene, Xeina Lorae as Glinda and Valentina as the Wiz.
An ensemble of performers also appeared in musical numbers throughout the show.
“Incredible amount of talent right here in our own community”
For Valentina, one of the most rewarding parts of directing the show has been watching performers grow into their roles.
“When they begin to truly understand their characters and connect with them on a deeper level, that’s when the magic happens and the performances really come alive,” she said.
Valentina also emphasized the importance of community theater in the High Desert.
“People often say there’s nothing to do in the High Desert, yet many will spend hundreds of dollars to travel hours away to support productions featuring people they don’t even know,” she said. “Meanwhile, we have an incredible amount of talent right here in our own community.”
