Family-friendly parody hits the stage July 12–13 at Richland Library Sandhills
Columbia Children’s Theatre (CCT) is putting a fresh, funny twist on a classic tale this July with Wicked of Oz: A Comic Fable, an original, family-friendly comedy performed by CCT’s professional adult acting company.
Audiences will journey through Munchkinland, the Emerald City, and beyond in this reimagined version of Oz told through the energetic, fast-paced style of Commedia dell’Arte — a theatrical tradition known for masked characters, physical comedy, and quick-witted improvisation.
Showtimes are:
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Friday, July 12 at 2 p.m.
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Saturday, July 13 at 3 p.m.
Both performances will take place in the Auditorium at Richland Library Sandhills, 763 Fashion Drive, Columbia.
Tickets are $15 general admission, and advance purchase is highly recommended at columbiachildrenstheatre.com. For more information, call 803-691-4548.
“This show is the perfect blend of comedy and culture,” said CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson. “It brings the timeless world of Oz into a fresh, hilarious format that delights young people and their families while introducing them to one of theatre’s most iconic styles.”
The cast features:
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Anna Swearingen (Columbine), a classically trained soprano and 2021 graduate of CCT’s YouTheatre program.
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Beth DeHart (Rosetta), a seasoned performer and visual artist with credits across Columbia stages.
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Lilly Thompson (Arlecchino), a UofSC Theatre major and returning CCT favorite.
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Toby O’Connor (Pantalone), a Columbia-area performer known for his sharp comic timing and love of puns.
Wicked of Oz is produced by Columbia Children’s Theatre, a professional not-for-profit company committed to bringing quality live theatre to families and young audiences. The production is supported in part by the City of Forest Acres and the South Carolina Arts Commission, with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.
