Submitted: Arthenius Jackson “After tragically losing both parents, Dorothy set her sights on the ‘Big City’ to become the music superstar that she always knew she would be. Her dreams finally became tangible as she landed a job at the infamous Sunshine Records. But assisting the ‘’World’s Meanest Boss,” being upstaged by her Gospel Star Aunt Emily and a mishap in the studio are just the beginning of her dream turned into a nightmare! Written and directed by Brian Forte’, and featuring over a dozen original songs, original score, and show stopping dance numbers, “THE GOSPEL OF OZ” is sure to make the whole family ‘shout on down’ the road!” The rest of the cast included the praise dancers of Kay Branch Baptist and the talented boys from Young Men in Christ. Cumulus Radio Personality of Glory 98.5, Trey Nicelson made guest a cameo appearance. The musical was a great success! The cast perThe Hartsville Center Theater was transformed into the Land of Oz Sunday, February 13th for the production of “The Gospel of Oz,” directed by Hartsville’s very own Brian Forte’. The show was originally planned to begin at 6 p.m., but due to an overwhelming response of the production, tickets sold out days before the performance day, and a 2 o’clock show was added. Hartsville’s native Brian Forte’ said, “This was a seven year dream for me and others who helped with the production of the ‘Gospel of Oz.’” The production had a similar theme and similar characters to the classical movie The Wizard of Oz: Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Woman and Lion all were in search of the Wiz to get help for their problems. Dorothy was still trying to find her way home, Scarecrow still needed a brain, Tin Woman needed a heart, and the Lion still lacked courage. The “Gospel of Oz’s” main theme was to encourage its audience that whatever your dream is, you can achieve it. It was heard in the theme song numerous times throughout the play. “You can achieve anything, if you only believe; there is good news for you.” The musical was sponsored by Kay Branch Baptist Church, of Hartsville. The main cast consisted of: Arthenius Jackson as Dorothy; Montrell Dupri as Scarecrow; Chon Jackson as Tin Woman; Kerton Washington as the Lion. The good witch, also known as the godmother was played by Renee’ McLeod while Quentina formed in front of over 1200 people based on the afternoon and evening show. Mayor Pennington stated, “The Gospel of Oz was an amazing display of Hartsville talent and faith—a sold out house tonight—looking forward to the next production!—it was awe-some.” Many of those who attended said the production was beyond their expectation. Brian Forte’ announced that Hartsville was just the first stop, and the show will be put on the road. He stated, “I want the next stops to include Columbia, Charleston, Greenville and Charlotte.” He said hopefully the production will pick up again in May. Thomas and Sonda Jett-Clair were cast as the evil witches. If you would like for the production of “Gospel of Oz” to come to your city, please contact Phyliss Thompson at Kay Branch Baptist Church at 843-332-6501 18
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