The "Green Cast" of Riverside Children’s Theatre’s Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition opens Friday night at JW North High School with a heartwarming and visually striking performance that proved just how much magic can happen when young performers are given a stage and a chance to shine. Directed by Karla J. Franko with vibrant choreography by Bethany Schultz, the production brought the classic tale to life with a fresh, youthful energy that delighted the audience from start to finish.

At the center of it all was Rylee Cummins as Dorothy, whose stunning vocals and genuine stage presence grounded the show in sincerity and sweetness. Whether belting out “Over the Rainbow” or navigating the yellow brick road with her companions, Cummins captivated the crowd with every note and gesture.

Special accolades must go to the incredible costuming—particularly for the Tin Man (Levi Reyes), the Cowardly Lion (Oliver Ohlheiser), and the Scarecrow (Ava Brusselback). Their detailed, imaginative costumes were not only visually impressive but allowed each actor to fully inhabit their character, both physically and emotionally. The Scarecrow’s floppy movements, the Tin Man’s metallic stiffness, and the Lion’s lovable bluster were spot-on and a joy to watch.

Celeste Ellison turned in a standout performance as the Wicked Witch, expertly channeling the character’s menacing cackle and theatrical flair without ever going over the top. Her scenes crackled with energy, and the audience loved every wicked minute.

Aubrey Yingst as Toto was a constant source of adorableness—always in the moment, full of character, and a favorite among younger audience members. Meanwhile, the Munchkin ensemble, featuring many of the cast’s younger performers, lit up the stage with their spirited musical numbers, executing choreography and harmonies with infectious enthusiasm.

The production was also peppered with delightful original touches. Nathaniel Lie as the Emerald City Ice Cream Man—a cleverly added bit of flavor and the Emerald City “tourists on vacation” were cute additions that added dimension and humor to the whimsical world of Oz. Lie also took on the role of the Mayor of Munchkin land with great success.

Before curtain, I had joked with Cagney Slaughter—whose daughter, Penelope Slaughter, played the Oz Guard—that unless a tree turned in an award-worthy performance, the focus would likely stay on the show’s leads. But the Trees were, in fact, excellent! A special shoutout goes to Jessica Luchsinger, Natalynn Schreck, and Zoey Ohlheiser, who gave their roles personality, presence, and surprising punch. You never know where a scene-stealer might be rooted!

With creative use of sets, clever staging, and a talented cast of kids who clearly understood their characters, this production is both charming and impressive. The attention to detail and the passion behind the production are evident in every scene.

Performance Schedule:

Green Cast: April 25 at 7 p.m. (Opening Night), April 27 at 1:30 p.m., and May 3 at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Pink Cast: April 26 at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., May 2 at 7 p.m., and May 4 at 1:30 p.m. (Closing Show)

Children’s theatre plays a vital role in a child’s growth and development—not only for those on stage but also for the young audience members who see themselves reflected in the characters and stories. Through productions like The Wizard of Oz, Riverside Children’s Theatre has consistently provided a nurturing environment where kids can explore their creativity, gain confidence, and experience the thrill of collaboration. For years, RCT has been a cornerstone of youth arts education in the community, and this production is yet another example of the magic they create when children are empowered to tell stories with heart. If you would like to have your child join RCT, or just give them some support in helping shape the future visit their website rct1957.com, where you can also buy tickets to the show.