For three dark nights in January, St George’s Amanda Smith Theatre was transformed into a wild, tornado-torn Kansas and the glorious technicolour world over the rainbow.  The Wizard of Oz was St George’s first full school production since the pandemic, and it was wonderful to see the enthusiasm of the actors and musicians rewarded with standing ovations from the audience each night. 

The performance was based on an adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, and was purposefully chosen to give an uplifting start to the year. All ages, from First Year to Upper Sixth, were involved in bringing the sparkling performance to life.

The adaptation is a faithful retelling of the story, with Dorothy and her dog Toto swept away from their home in a tornado to the colourful land of Oz for an adventure full of munchkins, winkies and witches both good and wicked. Ruby slippers, the Wizard, Good Witch Glinda, and faithful friends Tin Man, Lion, and Scarecrow help Dorothy to find her way home again.

The whole cast, chorus and orchestra were exceptional, capturing the essence of there being no place like home and the wonderful magic of the original story so well. And at the end of the performance on the last night, Sixth Formers Isobel and Bethan who played Dorothy treated the audience to a special duet of Over the Rainbow that was so emotional, it left cast, crew, and audience members in tears.

Directed by Drama teacher Mrs Lara Willis and Dance teacher Lisa Lee, the performance was fabulously entertaining and colourful.  The orchestra helped bring the show musical depth, with a mix of our own wonderful musicians and the professional musicians who supported them.  

 The stunning set and costumes were created by Drama technicians Graham Carey, Stephen Lam, and Helen Guy-Williams with the help of talented students and transformed our humble stage into the land of Oz. 

 And of course, no stage production can happen without the essential backstage operations. Our team in charge of lights, stage management, and stage tech gave the show a finesse to match any professional production. 

After the final performance, Mrs Willis said: “The Drama and Music Departments are so proud of the talented cast, crew, and musicians of The Wizard of Oz. The hard work of everyone involved culminated in a superb production that we won’t be forgotten any time soon!” 

Congratulations to everyone that took part; great memories were made in the magical land of Oz.