The Wizard of Oz (2015) London

The guerrilla street theatre performances formed the practice-based research component of my PhD titled ‘Exploring Agonism with Mischief: Participatory Performance in the Public Realm’ (2018, Loughborough University). A contemporary political satire and 3-man walkabout street performance, adapted from L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The Tinman, Scarecrow and Lion become politicians searching for brains, heart and courage. As politicians they've lost their way. Bewildered, leaderless and unable to distinguish fantasy from reality they need guidance and instruction. They hope by asking members of the public for direction, they’ll find the yellow brick road leading to Oz. This adaptation of The Wizard of Oz uses clowning, and irreverent mischief to question the role of politicians, and of ours as critical and forever curious citizens. Scarecrow: Ben Adwick Lion: Antoinette Burchill Tinman: Paul Broesmith Photographer: Kev Ryan Originally produced by Freckled Mischief in collaboration with Derby Festé and the Enterprise Projects Group, Loughborough University.