The Wizard of Oz has captivated audiences since it debuted on-screen in 1939. Based on the 1900 novel by L. Frank Baum, this musical classic tells the story of Dorothy, a teenage farm girl and her best friend, Toto the dog. When Dorothy runs away to save Toto from his untimely death, she finds herself in a tornado that lifts her into a magical world.
Once in Oz, Dorothy embarks on a whirlwind journey with unforgettable characters: The Cowardly Lion, the Scarecrow, and the Tin Man. As Dorothy skips through Oz, she learns tender lessons about the importance of friendship and courage, singing all the way.
The Wizard of Oz’s history is nearly as rich as the show itself. Written as a novel by L. Frank Baum in 1900, the film debuted at L.A.’s Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in 1939. The movie shocked and delighted audiences with its use of Technicolor, the first color film technology ever created. When Dorothy entered the brilliant land of Oz, she ushered in a new media era from a previously black and white world.
With its memorable songs and themes, The Wizard of Oz quickly became a classic. From “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” to the saying “there’s no place like home,” the story continues to touch the hearts of all who watch it.
