The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

If you are looking for plans this summer, IK Productions is bringing their adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz back to the Brighton Open Air Theatre. It is scheduled for July 29, 2026. This production is framed as a family comedy, focusing on a fast-paced, physical style of theatre that aims to keep things moving throughout the performance.

The show is designed to be accessible for all ages, which is a common approach for this company’s work. The narrative covers the familiar journey of Dorothy, the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion, along with the usual cast of characters like Toto, the munchkins, witches, and the winged monkeys. The production relies on a smaller ensemble cast, meaning the actors take on multiple roles to keep the energy up. Kirsten Boardman and Murray Andrews are part of the cast for this run.

Since the venue is the Brighton Open Air Theatre, the experience is entirely dependent on the weather, which is something to keep in mind when planning your evening. The adaptation itself is described by the company as having a 'bonkers' and 'delightfully daft' tone, which gives you a sense of the comedic direction they are taking with the classic story. It is a straightforward, lighthearted take on the book, intended to be a relaxed way to spend an afternoon or evening outdoors in the city.