The Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz Calgary Casting
The Wizard of Oz Calgary Digital Playbill

The Wizard of Oz Edmonton Digital Playbill
The Wizard of Oz Edmonton Casting

Know Before You Go / Audience Guide

Total Run Time: 1 hr and 50 min
Act I: 50 min
Intermission: 20 min
Act II: 40 min

Francesco Ventriglia's enchanting The Wizard of Oz invites audience on a spectacular voyage through a world of imagination, heart, and courage!

Ventriglia's innovative rendition offers a fresh twist and unique framing on L. Frank Baum’s treasured story. A Canadian premiere, The Wizard of Oz is vividly brought to life through a fusion of classical and contemporary ballet. Ventriglia largely followed the story by L. Frank Baum but with some adaptions to the opening scene, which begins in a children's hospital. This rendering, reflecting a personal experience, holds significance in how Ventriglia came to know and love the tale.

Dorothy and her ragtag crew—the playful Scarecrow, the tender-hearted Tin Man, and the brave Lion—forge a close bond as they journey through the magical land of Oz. The stunning visuals evolve from minimalist to magnificently elaborate as Dorothy discovers of the profound strength found in friendships built on empathy, bravery and loyalty.

This enchanting experience is a Canadian premiere, and just as audiences in Italy, New Zealand and Uruguay discovered, Alberta Ballet fans will leave with cherished memories and a renewed love for this timeless tale. Alberta Ballet is thrilled to add it to its repertoire of family ballets.

“Ventriglia has delivered a winner – a memorable tale for generations young and old told with flare, spectacle and momentum.” - DANZ, 2016