By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
The first weekend of Otsego High School’s production of “The Wizard of Oz” is done. And it couldn’t have gone any better, according to choir teacher Meredith Lincoln.
“These students have worked so hard these past three months, and all of their hard work paid off this past weekend,” Lincoln said. “I couldn’t stop crying after the first performance because I was just so proud of them.”
If you weren’t able to make it out to the show, no need to worry. OHS will present the musical three more times: Friday, March 25, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 26, at 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 27, at 2 p.m.
“This show is not one you want to miss,” Lincoln said. “I have heard nothing but positive buzz about the show. I have already heard of community members coming back next weekend to see the show again because of how much they enjoyed the show so much.”
The performance on Sunday, March 26, will be a sensory performance.
“The sensory performance is a very important aspect that Otsego has offered now for a few years,” Lincoln said. “It is important to make sure we offer this type of performance for people with disabilities. We want the theater to be as inclusive as possible and this allows everyone to feel comfortable while viewing our show.”
Sensory-friendly performances are designed to create a performing arts experience that is welcoming to all families with children with autism or with other disabilities that create sensory sensitivities.
Accommodations include:
-Lower Sound Level, especially for startling or loud sounds;
-Lights remain on at a low level in the theatre during the performance;
-A reduction of strobe lighting or lighting focused on the audience;
-Patrons are free to talk, leave their seats and even sing during the performance;
-Designated quiet areas within the theatre;
-Space throughout the theatre for standing and movement;
-OPS student LINKS and staff members who are trained to be inviting and accommodating to families’ needs.
OHS’s production of “The Wizard of Oz” features senior Abby Miles as Dorothy, senior Yash Hazari as the Scarecrow, junior Colin Wesseldyk as the Tin Man, senior Caleb Doorlag as the Cowardly Lion, junior Harry Loomis as the Wizard of Oz, senior Kendra Galloway as the Wicked Witch of the West and junior Madison Uramkin as Glinda.