Holy Family Academy famlly, friends and guests were treated to wonderful performances of The Wizard of Oz on February 6-7 at the Kroc Performing Arts Center in Phoenix.
This iconic L. Frank Baum story was brought to life by Holy Family’s 7th-12th grade students under the direction of Lindsey Murphy. These members of the HFA Drama Club wowed the audiences with their acting, singing and dancing. Senior Sofia Graves did an outstanding job as Dorothy (with her dog Murphy as Toto). The ever popular hapless trio was played by Gerard DeMark (Scarecrow), Ignatius Linzey (Tin Woodsman) and Dominic DeMark (Cowardly Lion). Sarah Colarelli portrayed Glinda, the Good Witch with senior Alexandra (Gator) DeMark as the Wicked Witch of the West.
The Wizard of Oz was played by Vincent DeMark. Over 30 students in the Ensemble showed their versatility by playing numerous roles such as the Tornado, Ozians, Munchkins, Snow, Flying Monkeys, and Winkies. James Austin and other students worked backstage to assist with many costume and set changes. HFA alumnae Rachel DeMark and Venice Weber also provided backstage/props support while Maria DeMark oversaw hair and makeup design. Alums Anthony Lopez and Max Obernuefemann managed stage lighting and sound. Zachary DeMark and his team were responsible for set design.
The Holy Family Drama Club emphasizes four areas of education: first and foremost, our traditional Catholic religious tenets which are interwoven into academics, arts and athletics. The annual production of a drama or musical is a major part of the commitment to helping students explore their artistic creativity — whether as an actor, dancer, set designer or part of the costume, makeup and backstage teams. It is also another opportunity for the students to work as a team to foster their collaboration skills. The production brings together nearly all of the middle and upper academy students and allows them to better know and understand each other.
Audiences are always astounded to find that a smaller school like HFA can produce such high-quality performances. It is a tribute to our directors each year that they are able to match up students with parts that best fit their incoming and developing acting, singing and dancing skills. Parents are often amazed when they see their students “come alive” with singing and dancing abilities that they never exhibited before. Younger siblings of the cast can be heard singing and dancing in the hallways at school and wishing they were old enough to be in the next play.
Many thanks to Director Lindsey Murphy, the cast, crew, and alumni volunteers for their tireless work to bring The Wizard of Oz to life. Thank you also to the Drama Club parents, Principal Laura Graves and the Board of Directors for their commitment to this program that helps our students grow and build their confidence in new and exciting ways.
