AID's "Wizard of Oz" a Joyous Success

Cast and crew of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz."

With a second production now under their belt, members of Project Stage Light have proven they have what it takes to put on a theatrical production where the phrase "developmentally disabled" is left at the door.

More than 800 friends, family, and community members laughed, clapped, and even shed some joyous tears earlier this month, as 70 cast and crew members performed "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" at Cape Central Jr. High School. Several students from area high schools performed alongside members of Project Stage Light, a cultural arts program that provides artistic opportunities for adults with special needs.

Marcus Griggs, who played the Voice of Oz, led the cast and crew in a prayer before the show with words that touched their hearts: "...may the audience see us for our abilities and not our disabilities."

His prayer was definitely answered, as after the performance many audience members commented that "it was hard to tell who was a student and who was not. "

One audience member, Cape Girardeau Mayor Harry Rediger, was impressed to see the camaraderie among the high school students and the other actors, and how well they complimented each other.

This year, 12 individuals including the high school students stepped forward and joined the SHINE program, which provides volunteers for programs sponsored by the Association for persons with Intellectual Disabilities (AID), in conjunction with VIP Industries.

The mayor also attended Project Stage Light's first production of "A Christmas Carol" last year, and is looking forward to the next production.

"They did such a great job," Rediger said. "It gives them such a sense of being and sense of accomplishment."

One actor's father could not agree more.

"It's just wonderful to let them express what they may not have been able to before," said Bill Guth, father to Billy, the actor who played the Soldier to the Wizard of Oz.

Guth was impressed to see his son, who is normally "a man of few words," to "put that much speech together at one time."

Director Meagan Edmonds was also amazed by Billy.

"He had his lines memorized before anyone and he always takes direction like a professional," she said. "He is so extremely talented and I believe he belongs on stage."

Edmonds was not only impressed with Billy's professionalism, but also with the entire cast.

"They brought a lot to the table," she said. "Many of our actors took the direction I gave them, but also took risks with the characters as well; trying new things and building upon the emotional depth. I have worked with performers before who are afraid to explore beyond the written page and it limits their acting ability. These actors, however, embraced the challenge resulting in strong character development."

For more information on Project Stage Light, AID, the SHINE program, or to receive updates regarding their next production, please visit their website at: www.vipindustries.com/aid.

Comments