Families Upset, Play Canceled and No Refunds Were Given

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Lauran, 9, and Ariel, 8, were excited about being part of the cast in 'Oz The Musical,' but that excitement has turned into disappointment.

"My daughter cried, she thought they did not want her," says Kathy Coucran.

Laura Ferrante says her daughter Ariel also felt dejected.

"It seemed like a reputable company," says Ferrante. She adds,"I'd like to see him held accountable, this is not right."

Todrick Hall is writer and director of Oz The Musical. He says the nationwide performance was canceled because the production lost its funding.

"It was due to the economy...I want to make it clear this is not a scam, we just did not have the money to meet the schedule." said Hall.

Hall says his producer was responsible for the budget, and Oz The Musical grew so fast the money wasn't there.

Coucran and Ferrante asked for a refund, but have yet to see it.

The children participating in Oz The Musical each paid $50 to $75 depending on their role. "I have yet to hear from anyone,"says Coucran.

Ferrante says,"If it was one or two shame on us, but in Tennessee there are 3,000 families that paid money."

Hall says he will put on another play this fall and the proceeds will be used to reimburse the families of 'Oz The Musical.'

Hall says any parent with questions can contact him at OZthemusical@yahoo.com.

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