Las Cruces Public Libraries is spinning up a bit of magic and controversy with its latest event, an intersection of classic film, theatrical adaptation, and critical discussion about censorship. On January 6, from 2-4:45 p.m., the Thomas Branigan Memorial Library is screening "The Wizard of Oz," a lead-in to dissect the themes and political undertones of the related, far darker narrative “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West,” as reported by the City of Las Cruces. The viewing is set to coincide with the buzz around Jon M. Chu's new film "Wicked: Part 1,” which promises to thoroughly explore said narrative through its cinematic lens.
The library isn't stopping at just a viewing, there's to be a companion meeting of the Banned Books Club slotted for January 30, aiming to more deeply into Gregory Maguire's novel, which paints a more nuanced picture of the infamous Witch of the West. This novel is much more than a revisionist take on L. Frank Baum’s work, delves into pointed political commentary and scrutinizes the nature of wickedness in society, an angle that its stage and screen adaptations sometimes glide over. The club plans to discuss why the book has been a source of controversy and how its themes play out across different mediums. Patrons are invited to attend in person or to virtually join via Zoom, opening the doors for a wide-reaching conversation.
"Are people born wicked? Or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?" It's Glinda's iconic question, one that speaks directly to the essence of the Banned Books Club's forthcoming conversation. The club will also extend the dialogue to why Maguire's book has incited significant debates, its variance from adaptations contributing to its divisive reputation. Books are available on first come, first served at the reference desk of the library, with digital copies also up for grabs via Hoopla.
Mindy Del Campo, Librarian at the Thomas Branigan Memorial Library, seems ready to aid visitors to not only check out the copies of "Wicked," but to also grasp the complex fabric of its storytelling. Accessibility to the discussion is taken seriously, the library is prepared to make documents available in alternative formats and provide accommodations for disabilities with prior notice, emphasizing an inclusive approach to this literary exploration. Those interested in enriching their understanding of "Wicked" or engaging in a lively debate over the nature of evil as depicted in Maguire's reimagined Oz can do so by contacting Del Campo directly at her library email or phone number.
