One day, when I was on Pinterest, I came across a post that mentioned a theme park called Land of Oz. In this post, it was written that even though the park closed down in the early ‘80s, it was open on special occasions. I’ve read, watched videos, and seen photos of abandoned theme parks from all over the world. The fact that Land of Oz was only partially abandoned fascinated me, as I’ve heard about theme parks that were either completely abandoned, demolished, or restored. When I did more research about North Carolina’s precious gem, I learned that the park hosts a few events throughout the year. Their most popular event is Autumn at Oz, which, according to the park’s website and as of this post’s publication, now has two out of three sold out tiered ticket sections! While looking through the website, I noticed that there were no planned screenings of The Wizard of Oz. On the list of scheduled events during Autumn at Oz, there will be a movie exhibit in honor of the film’s eightieth anniversary. However, because of the anniversary, it seems like a screening of the film would be an obvious choice. This list is dedicated to explaining why North Carolina’s Land of Oz should host a movie screening of The Wizard of Oz. If it weren’t for the cultural impact of this film, this theme park wouldn’t exist. So, paying recognition to the thing that started it all would be a good thing for Land of Oz to do.

Plenty of Opportunities

Land of Oz is a privately-owned space that hosts a few events throughout the year. These events give enthusiasts, families, and locals an excuse to explore this semi-abandoned amusement park and experience the festivities that are offered. Because of how broad the topic of The Wizard of Oz is, there are so many event ideas that could be implemented, including a screening of the film. With this, Land of Oz could provide another opportunity to open their doors to new and returning faces. It would also be a good way for the people associated with Land of Oz to make money, so that Land of Oz can continue to host events. If the people involved with Land of Oz chose not the host a screening of The Wizard of Oz as a stand-alone event, they could incorporate it into one of their existing events. For example, the screening could be included on the list of events for Autumn at Oz. For the guests, this screening would give them an opportunity to visit one of North Carolina’s most unique locations. While returning guests would be more than happy to come back to the “yellow brick road”, the screening could encourage new guests to visit the park. If the event were successful, the number of customers would continue to grow.

Taking Advantage of Nostalgia

At several theaters and through Fathom Events, screenings of pre-released films have become a common staple in the world of cinema. This is to capitalize on nostalgia and introduce people to films that are new to them. Everyone has that one movie that they hold close to their heart. For a large number of people, that film would be The Wizard of Oz. Hosting a screening of this film would let them relive memories and create new experiences. People who have never seen the film can witness it in an environment that makes the world of Oz seem like it’s coming to life around them. Fathom Events held a few screenings of The Wizard of Oz back in January. That’s because the people associated with Fathom Events realized the two aforementioned purposes that would make a film screening work. This screening would also show guests just how vast this cinematic property is. The film itself is not the “end all, be all” when it comes to this story. Land of Oz is just one example of how The Wizard of Oz can be incorporated into various media and outlets.

A Charitable Contribution

Sometimes, movie screenings are held in an effort to raise money for a local non-profit. Events like this can be organized by larger groups or businesses. If Land of Oz wanted to get involved in helping their community, there are plenty of worthy causes to choose from. While guests are attending the park for the screening of The Wizard of Oz, they can become educated about the non-profit that they are choosing to support. Supporters will be enthusiastic about having their favorite charity represented by a business that cares about the cause like they do. This would be a win-win-win situation for Land of Oz. First, they would be given a chance to help out their fellow neighbor. Next, by assisting a local non-profit, they could create a positive image for themselves. Finally, a fundraiser and movie screening of The Wizard of Oz held at the Land of Oz would be great advertising for the business.

More Than Just a Screening

In my review of Jurassic Park, I shared that I had attended my very first Fathom Event screening. Within the introduction, I stated that the screening itself fell short of my expectations. This is because I was led to believe that the screening would be an event, complete with giveaways and announcers getting the audience excited about the film. For a screening of The Wizard of Oz, Land of Oz could create a whole event out of it. On their website, the park hosts an event during Autumn at Oz called Dining with Dorothy. People who purchase a ticket to this experience will get to share a meal with Dorothy herself. This specific event could also be included with the movie screening, if the people involved with Land of Oz chose to do so. There could also be contests and various activities, such as trivia and carnival games. Since Land of Oz has never hosted an event like this, the sky would be the limit! Through “trial and error” and listening to guest feedback, the event can grow as time goes on.

Reaching the Emerald City

So, now that I’ve explained the reasons why North Carolina’s Land of Oz should host a movie screening of The Wizard of Oz, it’s time for me to summarize all of the main points that I’ve made. If the people associated with Land of Oz were to organize an event like this, I think there would be a lot of positives involved. It can be beneficial for both the business and its customers. Local non-profits could also benefit from this kind of event, as a portion of the money can go toward the charity of Land of Oz’s choice. Based on everything I’ve said, a movie screening of The Wizard of Oz held at Land of Oz has so much potential. The event could be stand-alone or incorporated with another event. The incentives that Land of Oz could use to encourage people to attend would be quite interesting. Looking back on what I know about this theme park, it seems like it has a growing fanbase. With new ideas and opportunities, that fanbase can continue to expand.

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen

If you want to learn more about Land of Oz, visit their website at https://www.landofoznc.com/.