Take a step into the World of Oz as up and coming student director Kaleb Gibbs guides middle schoolers along the yellow brick road to a sparkling future in theatre. Gibbs, senior, originally started out assisting and tutoring the middle schoolers at Wakefield Middle School. One thing led to another and he ended up presiding over their Christmas play with the help of his fellow classmates.

The journey was not easy, and just as Dorothy had experienced in Oz, you’re bound to stumble upon some flying monkeys on your way home.

“It can be really stressful at times when things go wrong, but the pros outweigh the stress so much,” said Gibbs.

If it wasn’t for the help and guidance from those around him, Gibbs may have fallen claim to the wicked turmoil of stress.  

“I’d like to thank all the high schoolers who came down and helped me with the show,” said Gibbs. “I genuinely couldn’t have done it without them. I’d also like to thank Mr.Orsett for his advice and help.”  

With assistance, magical slippers were not needed as the pieces of the production fell into place. The novice actors demonstrated maturity and skill as they conformed to the festive World of Oz.

“There were times when I forgot that I was working with younger people. [The middle schoolers] were extremely professional and incredibly talented,” said Gibbs.

Even if no one went home with ruby red slippers or a shiney new heart, everyone involved gained a bright new sense of courage. Gibbs especially felt the reward of molding the actors and actresses of tomorrow.

“The looks on the actors faces when they come backstage after performing just gives you the best feeling in the world, because you’re responsible for helping them get to that feeling,” said Gibbs.   

Dodging falling houses and winged beasts, along with the help of his friends and mentors, Gibbs embraces his destiny in the province of leadership and looks to the future with a shimmering outlook (and possibly a quick click of the heels.)

“It’s an extremely rewarding and fun experience,” said Gibbs “I would like to direct in the future.”