A Wizard of a Show at Saltash.net School

With a cast of over 100, this year's school production of 'The Wizard of Oz' at Saltash.net Community School was a truly fantastic performance.

The acting, singing, dancing and amazing special effects wowed audiences for 4 nights from the 6th - 9th December 2011, as well as 260 primary school children who attended for the dress rehearsal. 

Transforming the main school hall into the Land of Oz was no mean feat, but Head of Drama, Jo Loyn, and Head of Music, Viv Haighton, assisted by Technical Director, Matt Oakes and Production Assistant, Nicola  Ladwiniec, rose to the challenge superbly, creating an experience which equalled that of any West End theatre. 

Everyone who watched the school play this year agreed that the performance was a huge hit. Hannah Paull, as Dorothy, gave a captivating performance which belied her 14 years, especially as her character is on stage virtually the whole time. Ably supporting Hannah in the main roles were Sam Crawley as the Lion, JJ Harding as the Scarecrow and Luke Carter as the Tin Man.

There were many wonderful cameo roles which all showcased the considerable acting talents of so many of the students at the school. These included Jasmine Smith as Auntie Em, Tyler House as Uncle Henry, Olivia Lowden as Glinda, twins Casey and Corina Roisetter as the Wicked Witches, Tim Pook as the Munchkin Mayor and Ollie Gilford as the Wizard. 

Not only were the audiences at 'The Wizard of Oz' treated to a spectacle of singing and dancing, they were also given the opportunity to visit the Emerald City for refreshments during the interval, with the school's canteen turned into an 'over the rainbow' haven of 'Ozilicious' delights, thanks to the creative efforts of teacher Suzie Allen and the Friends of Saltash.net Community School. 

Headteacher, Isobel Bryce, said: "It was an incredibly ambitious musical to choose. The construction of a convincing yellow brick road alone would have deterred many school productions! But with so many students, staff and parents supporting the show, we have proved that no challenge is too great. I congratulate everyone involved: it was definitely a Wizard of a show!"