Character guide
Dorothy Gale
from The Wizard of Oz
Dorothy Gale is the young Kansas girl swept into the magical land of Oz in The Wizard of Oz, the 1987 stage musical built on Harold Arlen's beloved score.
- Show
- The Wizard of Oz
- Premiered
- 1987
- Role
- Lead
- Composer
- Harold Arlen
Who is Dorothy Gale?
Dorothy is an ordinary farm girl whose home is carried away by a tornado, landing her in the strange and colorful world of Oz. Determined to find her way back to Kansas, she sets off down the Yellow Brick Road, gathering companions and facing dangers along the way while never losing her hope of returning home.
Her journey is one of courage and self-discovery, as she learns to rely on her own resourcefulness even while surrounded by fantastical friends and foes.
Dorothy's role in The Wizard of Oz
Dorothy is the lead role and the emotional center of the entire story. The part demands a strong, clear singing voice, genuine warmth, and the stamina to carry nearly every scene, since the audience experiences Oz through her eyes. It is one of the most recognizable leading roles in American musical theatre.
Because the character is so beloved and so closely associated with iconic songs and imagery, the role carries significant expectation, and performers often bring their own freshness to a character audiences already feel they know.
Why Dorothy resonates with audiences
Dorothy's appeal lies in her universality. Her longing for home, her loyalty to her friends, and her steady courage in the face of the unknown speak to audiences of every age, which is a large part of why her story has endured for generations.
Frequently asked
What show is Dorothy Gale from?
Dorothy Gale is the lead character in The Wizard of Oz, the 1987 stage musical.
Is Dorothy Gale a lead or supporting role?
Dorothy is the lead role, and the story is told largely through her journey and point of view.
Who wrote the music for The Wizard of Oz?
The score is credited to composer Harold Arlen, source of the show's classic, widely loved songs.
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