The Wizard of Oz

IT'S definitely a long time since I saw The Wizard of Oz on stage, and even longer since I watched the film with Judy Garland.
But even if you missed the annual television  viewing - usually at Christmas - no-one needs the story explaining as it's like DNA running through the public consciousness.
Indeed, most of us can sing along to the entire score. Yes, it is that popular!
And so it proved to an enthusiastic full house, when BATS delivered a sparkling version at Batley Town Hall.
There were some outstanding performances, in particular from the wonderful Dominique Hammond as the Wicked Witch of the West, whose cackle was something to behold, and from her 'oppo' the gorgeous Glinda (Alison Smith).
The part of the 'good fairy' is often a bit of a twee part, but Alison's brilliant command of the hover board ensured that was never going to be the case here.
And then of course we come to Jessica Winstanley, who as a confident Dorothy provided the perfect lynchpin to guide the audience from Kansas to the land of Oz, and back again.
Along the way she encountered the Scarecrow, played acrobatically by Darren Smith, the Tin Man (Ryan Jones) and the Lion (Daniel Mann)  who all lent super support to Jessica, not to mention the well-behaved Tim - Dorothy's canine companion Toto.
Director Frank Hammond must also be applauded for some brilliant and innovative production ideas, not least of which was the Yellow Brick Road which proved so effective.
There were plenty of big chorus numbers, strongly sung and well choreographed by Georgia Hitch, and it was great to see plenty of young people up there, which bodes well for the Society's future.
Finally, the excellent band, under the direction of Nick Dolling lent much to what was a very entertaining evening.

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