Eisenhower presents 'The Wizard of Oz'

New Berlin - Building the bunch of theatrical sets needed for the New Berlin Eisenhower High School production of "The Wizard of Oz" was a little like holding an old fashioned barnraising that engaged everyone in the effort, directors Mary Kirby and Natalie Baertschy said.

"We had so many sets to build that we had to create a 'bring your dad to crew day,' " Kirby said. "Our dads, plus those of the cast and crew, some moms, some willing New Berlin neighbors, even a grandpa or two came to lend a hand."

But all is ready now for the curtain going up at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the school, 4333 S. Sunnyslope Road. The play also will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday.

But sets were only the beginning of the challenges for the show that is known for special effects, Baertschy said.

"We had to think outside the box, and do some thinking in the aisles of Home Depot, but we think the effects work perfectly in our vision of Oz," she said.

Overall she said the show has got it all: "great music, clever choreography, a cute dog, beautiful sets, magic."

Admission is $10, general, $7 for students and seniors. Advance tickets are available by calling (262) 789-6326.

- Jane Ford-Stewart