LAKEPORT — “The Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum has given the performers of Mendocino Lake Center Community College and Lake County Theater Company the opportunity to become something completely different from ordinary life. Perfect example of this are the dual roles of the Scarecrow, Tin Woodsman and Cowardly Lion.
Josh Blair, a Lakeport resident plays Hunk, one of Auntie Em”s farmhands, as well as the Scarecrow. Blair has been active in theater since high school. This is his seventh performance on stage.
Although the role of Ellerd in “The Foreigner” was a challenge, Blair said he is looking forward to his part in “Wizard.” Blair is a student at Mendocino College, works part time, does tutoring and plans to become a teacher while continuing to participate in the theater.
James Paton will play the dual roles of Hickory, a farmhand, and the Tin Woodsman. Paton is fairly new to acting, having performed for the past year. He is also a student of Mendocino College”s Performance and Production class, as well as a member of Lake County Theater Company.
When not performing Paton is a program manager and live-in care provider in Lake County. Paton said he is very impressed with the dedication of his fellow cast members and the musicians and chorus.
David Rogers plays as Zeke, a farmhand, and the Cowardly Lion. A Lucerne resident for the past nine months, Rogers was last seen in “Rocky Horror.” He is a car rental agent in real life, but loves classic films and said that he is thrilled to be playing this classic role.
Tickets to “The Wizard of Oz” are selling fast. Show times are at 7 p.m. today, Friday, Saturday, May 19 and 20 with 2 p.m. matinees on Sunday and May 22 at the Lake County Fairgrounds” Little Theater. Cost of reserved seats is $15 for adults and $13 for members, seniors and students. General seating is $12 for adults and $10 for members, seniors and students.
Reserved and general seating tickets are available at Catfish Books, 1013 11th St. in Lakeport, 263-4454. General seating is also available at Griffin”s Furniture, 14409 Lakeshore Drive in Clearlake, 994-2112.
