'Straight Outta Oz' with Todrick Hall

On Wednesday, August 3, YouTube personality and American Idol finalist, Todrick Hall performed the live version of his recently released visual album "Straight Outta Oz" at Boston's Wilbur Theatre.

Using "The Wizard of Oz" as his inspiration, "Straight Outta Oz" consisted of 20 original songs based on Todrick's life, from his upbringing in a Texas town to coming out in small town and finally to traveling to the big city of "Oz" (Los Angeles). Filled with bright costumes, dramatic choreography, catchy tunes and Todrick's charismatic presence, "Straight Outta Oz" is a positive story about staying true to oneself.

The costumes and set design set the mood for the fantastical modern day retelling of "The Wizard of Oz." A yellow brick road staircase dominated the scenery and was effectively used throughout the performance. The costumes were colorful and mainstream edgy -- and plentiful. Almost every song had a costume change and some songs had multiple costume changes. In what was refreshing change from many performances, the dancers were always fully clothed. The costumes were designed to enhance the story, not have people wonder, 'will that performer fall out the outfit soon?'

The dancers were a crucial part to the evening's live music video feel. The dance ensemble was led by Dance Captain, Brittanie Brant, and the troupe kept a fast pace the entire evening. Each dancer displayed a unique personality, which added to the ensemble's strong stage presence and energy. With up to 20 performers filling the stage at once, the dance moves were contained and tight. The choreography contained heavy usage of sharp dramatic moves, and it complimented the music well.

Todrick's 20 songs, performed by Todrick, the Divas, and other supporting performers, were the heart of the show, and each song had pop appeal. The songs ranged from stories about his grandma to the struggle of making it in Oz. Unfortunately, the sound system did not always work in the performers' favor. At times, the background music drowned out the singers' voices, which was disappointing because the lyrics were interesting and well-crafted.

Even when the sound was not working in the show's favor, the clear storyline and dancers carried the moment (which is impressive). When everything was working together, the music had an addictive hip-hop and pop blend. "Wrong Bitch" and "Expensive" were catchy dance songs with great ensemble dancing. And, the more serious songs, such as "Water Guns," with lines like "people pointing fingers; trying to find someone to blame now," connected with the audience while imparting strong social messages.

Every note or dance step may not have been hit perfectly in "Straight Outta Oz," but in the end, it did not matter. The charismatic Todrick Hall led an appealing cast and delivered a vibrant and fun performance.

For more on Todrick Hall/b> and his current tour, visit his website.