El Segundo's Broadway in the Park to Present THE WIZARD OF OZ, 8/8-11

Broadway In The Park and Gensler present The Wizard Of Oz at this year's summer theatre festival, August 8, 9, 10 and 11 at El Segundo Recreation Park Softball Field.

Now in its fourth year, this South Bay tradition returns with a professionally-staged musical under the stars, family picnics on the field, and a live Community Pre-Show showcasing performing arts groups from all over the South Bay. Over 2,000 Southern California residents attend the festival each year. Guests bring their own blankets, chairs, and picnic dinners to enjoy the festivities at the park, including costumed characters, themed snacks, and a character meet and greet for kids.

Executive Producer Jeff Cason remarks, "The brightest moments of my childhood were attending shows with my family and being transported to these amazing imaginary worlds through storytelling on the stage. The reality today is that families just can't afford to experience the arts together. It's too expensive and too stuffy. Broadway In The Park is all about making the arts accessible again."

Returning this year is Broadway In The Park's popular outreach program Charity Partners, where local non-profits, including El Segundo Concert Band, El Segundo High School Drama, and Ready Willing and Able - a dance program for kids with disabilities - will be featured at the festival and 10% of the gate sales will be donated to their cause. Additionally, over 300 tickets are being donated to underprivileged children and families who, because of poverty or family circumstances, wouldn't otherwise be able to afford a night out at the theatre. Underwriting this year is provided by Gensler and ArcLight Cinemas.

The Wizard Of Oz tells the story of Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and her little dog Toto, as they journey through the magical land of Oz to meet the Wizard and obtain their heart's desires. Based on the 1939 MGM movie musical, this production includes all your favorite songs and characters from the film, including "Over The Rainbow" and "We're Off To See The Wizard." The musical features a cast of 36 professional and local actors, presented with full sets, costumes, and lighting out on the baseball field.

Tickets are available online at www.esbroadway.com. The event takes place at El Segundo Recreation Park Softball field, located on the corner of Eucalyptus Dr. and Grand Ave. in El Segundo. Tickets are good for any one night of the festival and cost $20 adults, $12 children. Gates open 6:00pm, Community Pre-Show at 7:00pm, and The Wizard Of Oz starts at 7:30pm. For more info, visit www.esbroadway.com.

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