Westerville Central’s first and only live theatre production this year pays tribute to a Warhawk alumnus who played the Wicked Witch in the school’s 2009 performance of “The Wizard of Oz.”
Emilie Radigan, who graduated in 2010, passed away in 2018.
“Emilie was a bright spot in our department and loved by all,” theatre director Stephanie Matushoneck said.
Matushoneck said the department was scheduled to perform the play last school year but plans were halted in the wake of the COVID pandemic.
When the department learned they could return to live performances, they decided to continue their production of Oz. The classic story follows Dorothy as she lands in the magical land of Oz, sending her down the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City.
Matushoneck said L. Frank Baum’s story, which was published in 1900, still resonates today.
“So many teenagers see life through the lens of social media and their lives are colorless compared to what they see,” she said. “In more modern terms, it was almost as if Dorothy wished her life looked like a Snapchat filter. Dorothy was looking for something more, she never saw what was in her own backyard.”
The production, which runs March 19-21, will host a limited audience of 170 people. Seating will be physically distanced to meet COVID safety guidelines.
“I'm looking forward to being a part of such a classic musical,” said senior Ethan Zink, who plays the Hunk/Scarecrow. “I’m really excited to get to play the role of the Scarecrow especially because it’s such a relaxed and, as I like to say, loosey-goosey character. An extra bonus — my dad played the role when he was younger, so it’s now a Zink tradition.”
Zink said he is also honored to be a part of a show dedicated to Radigan.
“She was my babysitter growing up, and it’s an honor to be able to perform this in her memory,” he said.
Shows start at 7 p.m. on March 19 and 20; 2 p.m. March 20 and 21. Tickets can be purchased online. Westerville Central High School is located at 7118 Mt. Royal Ave. in Westerville.