2011: Wizard of UC

In this bizarre twist on the beloved movie, writer/director Steve Klein brought the odyssey home to Ulster County. Dot (portrayed by Christine Hein) is caught up in a storm and deposited on the strand during the Hooley Festival, where she is met by a throng of Leprechauns. Wanting to get back home, the Leprechauns suggest she see the Wizard of UC, who might help her. They instruct her to “follow the barrels and cones” (a playful poke at Kingston’s incessant state of construction). Along the way she meets colorful characters, including a high school gangster (Arun Lahiri) singing “If I only had a Blade;” a former Republican Councilman (Chris Burns) who rued his decision not to switch parties, signing “If I’d only Made the Switch;” and a cougar with gravity problems (Ray Radel)who offered, “If I only Had a Lift.” In the end Dot meets the Wizard of UC (portrayed by her husband, County Executive Mike Hein) who convinced her to stay after all.