THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF OZ

This set of audio plays--based on the first five “Oz” books--will provide hours of joy for children--not to mention the young at heart. Under Jerry Robbins’s direction, the Colonial Radio Players stay true to the words and the spirit of the original books. The acting is uneven, with many of the performers reading their lines without becoming their character. But this will matter little to the younger listeners. Music is used with beautiful effect to usher in the moods and transitions of the story. Sound effects are adequate, but the Foley artist ought to expand his repertoire of footstep sounds. Apart from the clink-clank of the Tin Woodman, all the human characters walk with the same stride. Minor lapses aside, this delightful package is a perfect treat for any holiday, road trip, or bedtime listening. S.E.S. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 01]