By Katie Winkler
Review Staff Writer
In the classic Wizard of Oz, Dorothy Gale went on an adventure along the yellow brick road with her friends, the Scarecrow, Lion, and Tin Man, to return home to Kansas.
For the production of Wizard of Oz by Stage Crafters, Dorothy is a freshman from Lake Orion High School who is seeking an opportunity to further her acting career.
On June 6, Gabrielle Phillips will take the stage at the Baldwin Theatre in downtown Royal Oak as Dorothy.
Fifteen-year-old Phillips has been acting for the past ten years, doing plays for her schools, along with outside sources such as Stage Crafters and Avon Players in Rochester. Her broad array of performances ranges from her role as Brooke Windham from the LOHS production of Legally Blonde to Lisa from the Sound of Music.
‘Wizard of Oz is a huge production. There are so many different effects and twists that we are adding to make it a little more modern, but still keeping that classic show,? Phillips said. ‘Filling the role of Dorothy is such a big deal considering Julie Garland played it. I’m really glad that I am getting the opportunity.?
Phillips auditioned for the part of Dorothy in late March and has been rehearsing ever since. Out of the play’s 27 scenes, Phillips is absent for only two when Dorothy is captured in the Wicked Witch’s castle waiting for her friends to come and rescue her. The challenging role has required Phillips to practice long hours each week, leading up to opening night.
‘Ever since I can remember, I always loved the song ‘Over the Rainbow? and with that comes Dorothy and one of my first dance numbers that I ever did (in my Dorothy costume),? Phillips said. ‘This is just a dream role to play and I think a lot of people can relate to her and the whole show has a great message.?
The Wizard of Oz will run at the Baldwin Theatre until June 22 on Thursday, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 2 and 8 p.m. Tickets for the Wizard of Oz can be purchased online at stagecrafters.org or by phone at 248-541-6430.