By David Dixon
For over a decade, California Youth Conservatory Theatre has been producing musicals ranging from “Spring Awakening” to “Big River.” Founded by Managing Artistic Director, Shaun T. Evans, the company produces shows that mix young performers with professional adult artists. Evans’ current production at the Lyceum Theatre is the urban interpretation of “The Wizard of Oz,” “The Wiz.”
A San Carlos family are involved with the present popular take on L. Frank Baum’s famous book. Elizabeth Blust and her daughter, Cassandra Blust, play several characters, including Ozzians and Winkies who encounter Dorothy (Jasmine January). Cassandra Blust’s sister, Kira Blust, works behind the scenes as the assistant stage manager.
Elizabeth Blust learned about CYC after reading an ad in the Mission Times Courier. “In 2013, I happened to see an advertisement for ‘Les Miserables’ auditions,” she said. “I thought my daughters should sign up for the staging, but I read that all ages could be a part of the musical. This is our 11th show that one or more of us have worked on with CYC.”
Kira Blust respects the fact that professional actors are mentors to ensemble members.
“It really is a training company,” she said. “You can learn more about acting at CYC.”
Some of the biggest challenges Elizabeth Blust encounters are singing several of the energetic musical numbers.
“I’m usually a high soprano, but I am singing lower in this version,” she said. “I can sing opera for five hours straight, but this musical has been difficult for me at times. Although the tunes have been really challenging, it’s also been a lot of fun.”
Besides training, Kira Blust is equally impressed with the quality of the players.
“It’s a really great group and I love getting to share the experience with them,” she said. “I love being an assistant stage manager.”
The original dialogue for the 1975 Broadway rendition was modernized at the La Jolla Playhouse’s revival in 2006 and for the acclaimed 2015 NBC television special. However, the book won’t be altered significantly at the Horton Plaza theater. “We haven’t taken too many liberties with the script,” Elizabeth Blust said. “There might be a couple of tweaks here and there.”
In an adventure full of uplifting musical numbers, several melodies connected strongly with the family. “’Brand New Day’ is one of my favorites,” Cassandra Blust said.
Ironically, Elizabeth Blust enjoys The Scarecrow’s (Jayden Ponder) songs, including the darkly funny, “You Can’t Win.” The Scarecrow is forced to croon the melody after cruel crows start to bully him.
“It’s a dismal message for such an upbeat number,” she said.
Like recent CYC events, live music plays a big part of the evening. Responsible for the R&B sound is music director, Tamara Paige.
“Having musicians makes the night more accessible and exciting,” Elizabeth Blust said.
After the Oz odyssey closes, Cassandra Blust hopes to continue working with CYC.
“I still would like to audition for more shows when the run of ‘The Wiz’ is over,” she said.
For Elizabeth Blust, the most important thing about “The Wiz” is that audiences have a good time watching Dorothy on her fantastical quest.
“I think it’s going to be really fun,” she said. “The choreography, costumes, and actors will be very exciting to see onstage.”
Kids and parents should be amazed by the craft and creativity in the magical fantasy eve. With so much CYC experience, the San Carlos family is most likely going to be featured in future theatrical events.
—Dave Dixon is a freelance theater and film writer. Reach him at [email protected].
