A Not-So-Novel Approach to ‘Wizard of Oz’ : Stage production of the classic tale plays like a shoestring version of the film.

The MGM film classic “The Wizard of Oz” is so identified with the original story that L. Frank Baum’s book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” would surprise those who’ve never read it. There’s so much more fantasy and deliciously scary stuff in it.

So it was interesting to find that, according to Kelrick Productions’ press material and program notes, its very modest stage production of the tale at the Complex in Hollywood was going to return to the book for inspiration. As it turns out, though, those intentions don’t translate into much that’s new.

This well-meant effort, directed by Erik Austin, is pretty much a shoestring version of the film, sans musical numbers, pyrotechnics and flying, with a few book touches thrown in--for instance, the Good Witch’s protective kiss for Dorothy and magic silver (not ruby) slippers.

Otherwise, the actors’ role interpretations and the look of the show, within its limitations of budget and venue size adhere closely to the film.

The Wicked Witch (Robbin Ormond) and the Cowardly Lion (Rob Grindlinger) in particular have been allowed to unabashedly copy their film counterparts--although, lack of originality aside, Grindlinger is especially winning and comical in the show.

In addition, while Austin makes efficient use of the small space, the show’s too-obvious connection to the film emphasizes the lack of musical content, making it seem odd that no one dances or sings, except in one perplexingly out-of-character R&B-style; music interlude that comes out of the blue.

Still, although the actors’ levels of experience are as uneven as the show, the capable leads are the show’s strength. Besides Grindlinger, adding sparkle are a great-looking Tin Man (Robert Seeley), Cadry Nelson’s jaunty Scarecrow, Paula K. Long’s gracefully Billie Burke-ish appearance as Glinda and Robin Navlyt’s assured performance as Dorothy.

* “The Wizard of Oz,” the Complex, 6474 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood, Saturdays and Sundays, 2 and 8 p.m. through Dec. 21. $10 (under age 12) and $12. (213) 658-4000.

Jazz It Up: Sing! Sing! Sing!, pianist-vocalist Judy Wolman’s sophisticated sing-along series for adults at the Jazz Bakery, usually features programs of Broadway tunes and standards. It will be a family affair in December, however, with two special, all-ages programs designed for holiday music-making.

An afternoon version of Wolman’s “Candlelight Carols” offers a program of traditional and popular carols especially geared to family audiences on Dec. 21, including the Fred Waring arrangement of “The Night Before Christmas,” plus a local children’s choir. (“Candlelight Carols” for adults is scheduled for Dec. 23 at 8:30 p.m.)

Then, on Dec. 28, Wolman’s “Family Sing Along” returns for the second year. The celebration of 50 years of children’s music includes songs from Disney movies, “Wizard of Oz” tunes and other classic child-friendly songs from the ‘30s to the present.

The sing-alongs are led by Wolman and the Sing! Sing! Sing! adult ensemble. Song sheets are provided.

* “Candlelight Carols: Family Day,” Dec. 21, 2 p.m. $12. “Family Sing Along,” Dec. 28, 4 p.m., $6 (ages under 12) and $12. Jazz Bakery, 3233 Helms Ave., (310) 546-5470.