BUTLER TWP — The Musical Theatre Guild's production of "The Wizard of Oz" opened Friday night at the Succop Theatre to a full house.

But it wasn't just the little children who were enchanted with the world of Oz; several adults were spotted mouthing the words to a few of the songs. It was a fine evening of family entertainment.

Shannon McCarren quite capably stepped into the ruby slippers. Her speaking voice was almost exactly like Judy Garland's. She had the pout down perfect, as well as the despondency and the encouragement as she picked up her three amigos on her way down the yellow brick road.

Her singing voice, which is unique, deep and rich, faltered just a bit during the segues on "Over the Rainbow" which is one of the toughest songs to sing. During the rest of the vocals she seemed more confident and better matched.

Little girls were all starry eyed at Glenda the Good Witch, played sweetly by Stephanie Douglass, who garnered her share of applause at the curtain call.

Personally I think Toto was fabulous. The last time I wrote about a Toto in Oz, he responded with a letter to the editor.

This Toto was on the spot perfect with nary a kibble or morsel taunting her to behave. Molly, who played Toto, had great chemistry with her cast mates. She not only looked the part but acted it as well.

Joel Richardson did justice to both the Scarecrow and his roll of Hunk. He was tender when he needed to be and oh so flexible and wobbly.

In contrast, the Tin Man played by Charlie Fineran was expertly stiff when he needed to be. He brought a unique personality to the role and was quite enjoyable.

Reese Fleeger did a super job with the Cowardly Lion and was an audience fave.

Once again it was great to see Jordan Bodden in a major role. I was not as thrilled with her Miss Gulch as I was with her Witch of the West. Bodden seemed to have a ton of fun on the stage and mastered the art of the cackle.

Of course the little munchkins were adorable — they usually are. The costumes were really an asset to the production and kudos goes to Connie Rodgers for her choreography.

I am not sure how I felt about the multimedia involved in the show as I found the miscues a bit distracting, but here's hoping it was an opening night kink.

Also notable was the performance offered up by Justin Bud Anderson in playing Professor Marvel and the Wizard of Oz. His characterization was spot on yet he brought a little something extra that made for an enjoyable character.

The performance ended with an extensive curtain call and an enthusiastic response from the audience.