High school is only four years of our lives, but everyone wants to leave their mark. The Upper Perk Drama Club is celebrating the mark left by alumni as they recreate the memories they made on the first production of The Wizard of Oz.
The Wizard of Oz was first produced eleven years ago. The staff is so excited to bring it back to UPHS. According to the director, Mrs. Austin, the time to revisit this production felt right because they had the perfect cast. The 2014 cast was invited to a reunion before Saturday night’s show.
Current UPTV & Multimedia teacher Mrs. Herron was part of the original cast. Mrs. Herron was the Scarecrow in the 2014 production who was, in her own words, “a floppy, lovable character.” She still remembers how nervous she was on opening nights.
Despite this, Mrs. Herron said, “I only have fond memories of that production.” She went on to say, “I loved being able to spend time with all my friends.” She is so excited to be reunited with many of her former cast members.
Despite this being the second production of this show, the musical itself is fresh, highlighting the talents of the 2025 Drama Club. Instead of looking at the show as a tribute, it is a place where the newer generations can showcase their own hard work. However, for those who remember the 2014 show, there will be a few easter eggs awaiting you!
Mrs Austin’s vision is that “After eleven years, we’ve grown as a company, and this production is an excellent opportunity to showcase that progress—whether in storytelling, technical execution, or just a bit more wisdom in knowing when to click our heels together.”
According to Mrs. Austin, both productions had to overcome a few challenges. The 2014 cast members faced the challenge of being on stage almost non-stop, as they were constantly on stage with the yellow brick road going into the audience. And, of course, the biggest dilemma, even eleven years later, was figuring out how to melt a person onstage!
Make sure to check out UPHS’s second production of The Wizard of Oz to support the cast and staff’s hard work! Ticket information can be found on the Drama Club’s Instagram page and in Mr. Flanagan’s weekly updates.
