They say “you can’t go home again.” However, in this year’s Jefferson Street Youth Dinner Theater production, we learn “there’s no place like home.” Yes, you guessed it! This year’s performance is L. Frank Baum’s “The Wizard of Oz.” This is a production that has something for everyone: a dangerous quest; a search for talent; a longing for wholeness. Dorothy is the manifestation of what it is like to be an adult. After all, how many of us wish we could return to the halcyon days of childhood, when life was simpler and there were grownups who could take care of us? But life isn’t always so easy.

Thankfully, Dorothy, like us, finds friends to help her along the way. Friends who are flawed, but true and who provide a shoulder to cry on, encouragement to help her along, and comfort in companionship. Finally, coming upon the Emerald City, Dorothy realizes that there’s no “easy” button. Life is messy and hard and ultimately, decisions must be made which impact others. Learning to live with the consequences of our actions is part of growing up and helps shape who we become.

“The Wizard of Oz” is one of those rare stories that we can visit throughout life and, at each stage, learn new things. To the children, those ruby slippers may be that gift they really want, only to find that the anticipation is much more enjoyable than the reality. To teens, Dorothy’s quest is full of the angst and trials of becoming an adult. To those of us who are adults, learning to “see behind the curtain” is a skill we are constantly trying to master. And, eventually, as we reach the winter of our lives, we realize how important relationships are and have always been. Come to Jefferson Street this week to relive your childhood and see this classic through new eyes!

Performances are at 6 p.m.Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 12:30 p.m. Sunday. Featured performances are by seniors James Allen Coley, playing the Cowardly Lion; Logan Young, playing the Scarecrow; and Elena Rodriguez, playing the Wicked Witch. The menu will include tender roast pork loin, tangy green beans, seasoned wild rice pilaf, and, for dessert, sweet and spicy apple cake. Tickets may be purchased through the church office at 601-448-3795 or at the door. Tickets are $17 for adults, $12 for youth $12.00 and $6 for children.

 

Linda Rodriguez attends Jefferson Street United Methodist Church.