The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition

It was lovely to welcome Limelight Performers as a new NODA  East member for me here in District 12 and such a joy to be invited to come and see this production. Thank you for your kind hospitality.

This is the first of two ‘Shows in a week’ they are producing this year. These young performers were auditioned earlier in the year and were given their scripts and musical numbers to learn before they all came together at the beginning of this half term week for an intensive rehearsal period before their 3 performances starting with this one at 11.15am.

What a way to spend the week and it was evident that they had all bonded together well with 37 performers along with another 7 young people helping on the crew and creative team.   Six of them were involved and learning many different aspects on the production side of the performance as ASM, DSM, Follow-spots, Lighting and Sound Operators  and Sound No 2.  A brilliant opportunity for them.  This number also included Dylan Garner,  a talented young man who assisted the Directors with the direction and music with input on the choreography,  including the big Jitterbug number  which he led.   His passion was obvious with the quality of the dance numbers for this large cast in what was quite a small stage area.

Yasmin Chenery was delightful as Dorothy, a role she played with warmth and affection as she set out on her journey for the Emerald City. She was accompanied by her dog Toto who followed her around constantly and Charlie Utley brought this hand puppet to life as her faithful companion. The other companions she meets along the way were Albie Brennan as the charming, unforgettable Scarecrow, Charles Brennan as Tin Man who looked amazing in his shiny, silver costume along with Lily Clarke as the loveable Lion.  Laura McLeish was Glinda, the Witch of the North, in her fabulous white costume as she casts her spells to protects the friends from the suitably evil looking, green Wicked Witch of the West, played by Grace Lamb.  All these characters thrived in their respective roles, were totally believable, word perfect and totally confident in the strong delivery of their songs.  

Everyone of this cast of 9 to 16 year olds had their own individually named characters as well as being part of the ensemble. The score for this fabulous production has many iconic and much loved musical numbers and this cast all gave plenty of energy and vitality to their song and dance numbers. The talent, dedication and enthusiasm of them all was amazing and to think they had just 5 days to rehearse this wonderful show.  You should all be very proud of your performances.

The individual and ensemble costumes all looked great and represented the characters well.  On a small stage such as this, the set needs to be carefully designed with the few pieces seamlessly wheeled on and off but with very effective lighting to enhance the atmosphere. With Chairman, James’ expertise with his own sound and lighting company we know this was in safe hands. Very well done to the Directors, Abbie and Kelly for their inspiration and to all the cast and team in this fabulous and most enjoyable show.

Chairman, James Alesksic founded the Limelight Performers in 2019 and along with help of his Trustees and numerous production team he wanted to create opportunities for as many local people as possible to be involved in amateur theatre.  Over this time, they have given that opportunity to over 400 people of all ages and abilities. This show was the first of 6 productions they will be performing in 2026 along with two more just announced for 2027. It’s a pleasure to have you on board and we at NODA wish you well with all your future plans and look forward to seeing you all again very soon.

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