Gary Wilmot to join ‘The Wizard of Oz’ cast at the London Palladium
The West End actor will play the Wizard in the fantasy musical, alongside Jason Manford and Ashley Banjo as the Cowardly Lion and the Tin Man respectively.
We’re off to see the wizard! Gary Wilmot will join The Wizard of Oz at the London Palladium this summer, with previews from 23 June, ahead of an opening night on 6 July, and performances to 3 September.
Wilmot will play the title role and Professor Marvel. He previously took on the Wizard role in Wicked, the prequel musical to The Wizard of Oz. He's also played Jethro in the world premiere of The Prince of Egypt, as well as the dame character in numerous pantomimes at the London Palladium.
He joins Jason Manford as the Cowardly Lion and Ashley Banjo as the Tin Man, with further casting to be announced.
The Wizard of Oz follows Kansas teenager Dorothy and her dog Toto. When a tornado sweeps the pair to the fantasy land, Dorothy journeys down Oz's yellow brick road with a tin man, a lion, and a scarecrow, all in the hopes of returning home.
The musical features songs from the Judy Garland-starring 1939 film, including "Somewhere Over The Rainbow.” Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice penned additional songs, such as "Red Shoes Blues" and "Farewell to Oz."
Nikolai Foster directs, with choreography by Shay Barclay, set design by Colin Richmond, costume and puppet design by Rachael Canning, lighting design by Ben Cracknell, and sound design by Adam Fisher.
The Wizard of Oz is at the London Palladium.
Photo credit: Gary Wilmot (Photo courtesy of production)
Frequently asked questions
What is The Wizard of Oz about?
After a hit run at The London Palladium, The Wizard of Oz returns to the West End for 38 performances only, starring JLS singer Aston Merrygold as The Tin Man and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner, The Vivienne, as The Wicked Witch of the West.
How long is The Wizard of Oz?
The running time of The Wizard of Oz is 2hr 20min. Incl. 1 interval
Where is The Wizard of Oz playing?
The Wizard of Oz is playing at Gillian Lynne Theatre. The theatre is located at 166 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5PW.
How do you book tickets for The Wizard of Oz?
Book tickets for The Wizard of Oz on London Theatre.
What's the age requirement for The Wizard of Oz?
The recommended age for The Wizard of Oz is Ages 6+. Children under 4 years of age (including babes in arms) will not be admitted into the auditorium. All persons aged 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own within the auditorium..
Who wrote The Wizard of Oz?
Andrew Lloyd Webber and Jeremy Sams wrote the musical, the original book is by L. Frank Baum.
Who directed The Wizard of Oz?
Nikolai Foster stages the show.
What songs are in The Wizard of Oz?
The musical features songs from the Oscar-winning film, including We’re Off To See The Wizard, and Over The Rainbow.
Is The Wizard of Oz appropriate for kids?
The Wizard of Oz is a show that is fun for the whole family. The musical is best for children ages six and above, and those under four will not be permitted in the venue.
Is The Wizard of Oz good?
The Wizard of Oz is a fantastic musical based on L. Frank Baum's beloved classic book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. This musical has earned numerous award nominations and boasts a talented creative team and an exceptional cast, including JLS singer Aston Merrygold and RuPaul's Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne.
Originally published on
