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The Wizard of OZ:
March 19, 2025
Image provided by: Tito Fliehman
First published as a children’s book titled The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, the renowned story was adapted into a musical simply titled The Wizard of Oz in 1939.
Then 86 years later, on March 13-15, Menasha High School theatre students performed an adaptation of their own. Their performances beat the record number of audience members within Menasha High School’s history, with 1,110 people attending the four shows. The primary featured stars are the acclaimed:
Izzy Godden as Dorothy Gale, Lillian Heller as Glinda, Lamond Hill as Cowardly Lion, Vincent Kroes as Tinman, Jaliscia Sanders as Wicked Witch of the West, Kaden Jannette as Wizard of Oz, Simba as Toto, and many more members within the roles of Munchkins, Crows, Trees, and the set crew.
As well, of course, Tito Fliehman, junior, as the Farmhand and Scarecrow.
The role of the Scarecrow is acted out as cheerful, easygoing, and much more intelligent than portrayed throughout the majority of the show. However, the performances were not as easygoing as the Scarecrow looked, and it took months of dedication to perfect his lines and role. Playing the Scarecrow, Fliehman provides insight into the reality of the musical.
“The hardest part of practice is the commitment to the schedule,” he said, highlighting the prolonged hours that spectators of the play probably lose sight of. “Anyone can act and sing, but to find the time and be at the school till eight or nine is the challenge.”
Fliehman does not have any regret with the numerous hours spent preparing. “When you have kids spending four hours (a practice) together for four months, (that can) create an impact.”
Students with an interest in the art at Menasha High School do get benefits with the packed schedule. Those interested in joining in on the productions can do so while also getting half a credit at the school.
Fliehman previously took the MHS class, Set Art and Design, which creates the entire set. “It takes dedication and time management, but it’s worth it to see your creativity make a show beautiful.”
He remains positive about the importance of the shows to him, with as much exuberance as the Scarecrow.
Fliehman said how simply cheering and clapping is enough for him to see the importance and feel people’s appreciation.
“All the praise you get from the teachers and kids makes it all worth it,” he adds.
The musical would not be what it is, without the phenomenal crew. Fliehman said, “(The crew) brings the cast together and makes a family every show, no matter who’s in it.”
While the shows are full of audiences buzzing with excitement, the cast knows that only last a few nights. But the actors see beyond just the show. With senior year fast approaching, Fliehman uses the theatre program as not only a fantastic hobby but also as a plan for his future. “It impacts what college I'll go to, and what I'll do in the summer.”
Image provided by: Addison Greene
Fliehman has hopes for next year, his senior year, at Menasha High School. He thinks the cast should do Hadestown next season. Though his favorite musical is Ain’t Too Proud– The Life and Times of the Temptations and would be his dream musical.
Besides the efforts of the cast, he attributes the success of The Wizard of Oz and the theater program to the role models supporting them. Fliehman extends his gratitude to Mrs. Fritz and Mrs. Douglas for helping the shows become better and better.
“They have been raising the bar every year to shape these amazing plays,” he said.
Fliehhman also points out that the MHS theater program helped him be an influence in the musical and acting world.
“I love this school,” he said. “Thank you MHS theater program for giving me my dreams.”
by Jordan McCarthy
March 19, 2025
The Jay's News Nest
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