Welcome to The Wizard of Oz. It is a joy to share this production with you.

When I was little, The Wizard of Oz was my feel-better movie. I watched it often and had the iconic solo memorized long before I ever performed. I had my first public appearance singing “Over the Rainbow” for an elementary school talent show. It was the first time I was on stage by myself, and I never looked back. From that moment on, theater became a part of who I am. The Wizard of Oz was also the last production I was part of in my childhood theater company before graduating high school, which makes this show especially meaningful to me.

After a tornado whisks her away to the magical land of Oz, young Dorothy Gale teams up with a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodsman, and a Cowardly Lion to find the mighty Wizard of Oz, who can send her home. Along the way, they must avoid the clutches of the Wicked Witch of the West, who is determined to steal the mysterious magic slippers that once belonged to her evil sister, but are now on Dorothy’s feet. In the end, Dorothy discovers just how powerful friendship can be and how meaningful it is to find your way home.

Something about Dorothy’s longing to be understood and her desire for adventure, only to discover she already had everything she needed, resonates deeply with me and with so many others. So often, we picture what our journey is supposed to look like and miss the beauty right in front of us. The plans God has for us are better than we can imagine, and the people He places along our path teach us more about ourselves and His goodness.

This story is timeless, but what makes it truly special tonight is the incredible group of students bringing it to life. Their dedication, courage, and creativity have been inspiring to witness. From those on stage to those behind the scenes, this production represents countless hours of hard work and a genuine love for the arts.

I also want to extend my sincere gratitude to our parents and our Rancho community. Your support, encouragement, and investment in these students make moments like this possible. You are a vital part of what makes this program so meaningful.

May we all take with us the truth of this story: that we are smarter than we think, more loved than we know, braver than we believe, and that there truly is no place like home.

Thank you for being here tonight. I hope you enjoy the show.