Upcoming John Adams Academy production directed by Folsom’s Sunny Mitchell
Students in El Dorado Hills and are preparing to take the stage to bring one of the most iconic tales and movies of all time to life. Under the direction of Folsom’s Sunny Mitchell, John Adams Academy presents The Wizard of Oz and tickets are on sale now.
“I am a proud parent of two JAA scholars and I have been in dance and theatre my entire life,” said Mitchell. “I am thankful to be given the opportunity to do what I do where my children go to school.”
Taking the stage on April 13 through April 15, Mitchell describes the production as a delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film, The Wizard of Oz, which was based on L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel. The film premiered at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on August 15, 1939 and remains a timeless classic enjoyed by generations today.
This stage adaptation, presented by the Royal Shakespeare Company, premiered at the Barbican Centre in London on December 17, 1987. Now, the students of John Adams Academy will present their version of the classic.
The local production boasts actors from 2nd through 12th grade and according to Mitchell, close to 50 scholars are participating in the production between those on the stage and behind the scenes.
“The student actors are wonderful to work with and the level of involvement from parents to scholars behind the scenes is phenomenal,” said Mitchell.
Mitchell is known to wear many hats when it comes to entertainment in and out of the Folsom Community. From her non-profit Wildwood Roses Performing Arts Foundation to the local Americana music series, Falcon’s Eye Theatre and more, there are very stages in the area that Mitchell hasn’t performed on or worked with. This will be, however, her first director’s role.
“While I’ve been an actor, a dancer, a vocalist, a choreographer, a producer, and an assistant director, I’ve never held the title of Director for a musical,” said Mitchell. “I am blessed to have this opportunity at John Adams Academy.”
Performances will be held at the following days and times Thursday, April 13th at 6:30pm Friday, April 14th at 7:00pm Saturday, April 15th at 12:30pm and 7:00pm.
Tickets are now on sale and it is recommended to purchase them early. Tickets are available online at ticketspice at: https://johnadamsacademy.ticketspice.com/wizard-of-oz. The John Adams Academy gymnasium is located at 1102 Investment Blvd, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762.
