Families can share a night of larger-than-life theatrical fun together as Canadian Stage presents the holiday pantomime extravaganza, “The Wizard of Oz: The Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical”! Complete with irreverent twists on the timeless tale of The Wizard of Oz, you can embark on a whimsical journey to the fantastical landscapes of Oz, brimming with laughter, toe-tapping music, and mischievous antics.

This musical and fantastical show supplies plenty of zany adventures for audiences of all ages! Join Dorothy and her friends on this hilarious romp through the wild landscapes of “TorOZto”. The merry gang finds their way to the CN Power to discover the identity of the Wizard, who happens to love bike lanes like a true Torontonian! Kids will love to cheer for Team Dorothy as Plumbum, the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow work together to defeat the Wicked Witch of the West End. Along with the production’s astonishing sets and spectacular costumes, families can enjoy some ridiculous parodies of hit songs, including Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, and many more.

Directed by Ted Dykstra, “The Wizard of Oz: The Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical” features two beloved returning Panto players, Dan Chameroy as Plumbum and Eddie Glen as Scarecrow! It also includes an eclectic cast of musically talented new performers: Jordan Bell, Andrew Broderick, Jonathan Cullen, Saphire Demitro, Sierra Holder, Julia Pulo, Kirstyn Russelle, and Vanessa Sears.

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“The Wizard of Oz: A Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical” is a New Spin on a Time-Honoured Theatre Tradition!

Canadian Stage takes audiences on a new exciting journey this holiday season, leading the next chapter of larger-than-life holiday pantomimes. Not only are Pantos full of lively and funny action, but they are also an amazing way to introduce kids to theatre. Pantos provide a rare treat where audiences are encouraged to participate in the action. Kids can feel free to cheer for the heroes and boo the villains!

Pantomime plays first became popular as holiday fare in England in the early 1800s, evolving from historical theatrical traditions such as Medieval Mummers’ plays and the highly influential Commedia dell’arte art form. Common elements include audience interaction, contemporary music integrated into the play to advance the story, broad big-hearted humour, wild costumes and improvisation.

For many Toronto families, it has long been part of their yearly holiday plans to see Ross Petty’s annual pantos at the historic Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre. With Mr. Petty now serving as Executive Producer Emeritus, Canadian Stage takes up the mantle of this iconic 25-year tradition — we’re not in Kansas anymore!

Promo Code:

As an extra-special holiday treat, when you book a Family Pack of at least two Regular and two Child tickets, you can save up to $90 on tickets with the FAMILYFUN promo code! (Available on Tuesday-Friday performances from December 6-19.) Get more details and grab this amazing deal here!

Note: Recommended for ages 3+. Regardless of age, all persons entering the theatre must have a ticket. 

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Canadian Stage: “The Wizard of Oz: A Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical”

When: December 6, 2024 — January 5, 2025
Time: Tuesday-Saturday 7:00pm, Saturday-Sunday 2:00pm; See Holiday Schedule here
Where: The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre, 189 Yonge Street, Toronto
Facebook: @cdnstage
Instagram: @canadianstage
Website: www.canadianstage.com

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