'The Wiz' Opens Friday at Pottstown High School

Advance tickets are $7.
$9 at the door.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Pottstown School District: 

The Pottstown School District will present its all-district musical in seven years, 'The Wiz,' at Pottstown High School’s Davenport Auditorium on Friday March 4th, Saturday March 5th at 7 p.m. and Sunday March 6th at 2 p.m.

Nicholas Parson in his full 'Scarecrow'
make-up and costume.

Christopher Sperat, the director of the production and pre-kindergarten teacher at Lincoln Elementary School, along with a committee of dedicated teachers and administrators, spearheaded the revival of the musical last year with the district's first performance in six years.

"Presenting 'Grease' last year was simply a remarkable experience," said Sperat. "At our end of the year all-district meeting, Dr. Sparagana announced that the musical was back and it was alive and well in Pottstown."

"For me, that was the ultimate validation of the work that the entire production team accomplished with the students," Sperat said.

"Truly, Pottstown's finest were featured on that stage last year. Because of that, we are so excited to see our program grow into an all-district musical this year," said Sperat.

Seth Thomas has his hair turned green 

for his role as The Wiz

" By featuring the elementary and middle school students right next to our high school students, we are witnessing the future of this program live and on stage right before our eyes," he said. "How fantastic is that?"

With the massive success of 'Grease,' the production team decided to return to Pottstown’s tradition and make this year’s musical, The Wiz, an all-district-musical involving students in grades 4-12 as well as teachers and staff. 

Bob Decker, this year’s stage manager is elated. “Last year’s production exceeded our expectations in all areas. We had fantastic talent from dedicated students and staff. The result was a fantastic experience for both the students and the audience." 

"This year, 'The Wiz' will blow the audience away. This production is HUGE," said Decker.

Here is some video I shot for a story The Mercury ran last month on the production:

Superintendent Jeff Sparagana REALLY wants you to see The Wiz.

"We have a cast that is four times larger than last year. The set, scenery, and music are going to be outstanding," Decker said. "Our audiences are going to be in for a fantastic musical adventure with Dorothy and her friends the first weekend of March. Come join us.”

Mardaije Pearson, who will bring life to the lead role of Dorothy in this year’s production can’t wait to take the stage on opening night. “I am very excited to work with all of my wonderful cast mates and to be able to provide fun and entertainment for my community.”

For more information, including purchasing tickets in advance through PayPal, visit our district web page at www.pottstownschools.org/thewiz.aspx . All tickets are general admission and will be sold for $7 in advance and for $9 at the door on the day of the show.