You know the story: During one hell of a tornado, a girl and her dog get swept away to Oz, where she only wants to find a way home. What you may not have known? Many believe the story to be an allegory for America at the dawn of the 20th century (the Wicked Witch of the West, for example, symbolized the American West, the yellow brick road symbolized the gold standard, and Dorothy's silver — yes, silver — shoes symbolized the move toward a silver and gold standard. It's a lot to take in, we know). The point is, the story has more than meets the eye, as does this exceptional cast, a blend of professional actors with actors who have different disabilities. The point — other than a good time at the theater — is how Theatre eXceptional showcases talent, not disabilities. Two of the founders, Brianna Larsen and Johnny Garde, first appeared in our Fall Arts Preview 2015: 25 & Under as ones to watch. In one year, they haven't disappointed.
The Wizard of Oz
Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr., Largo.
Sept. 8, 7:30 p.m.; Sept. 9-10, 8 p.m.; and Sept. 11, 2 p.m.
$20.50 adv.; $25.50 door. bluebutterflyproductions.org.
