The Wizard of Oz!

Bloom Theatre Works are bringing The Wizard of Oz to the Library Theatre in Sheffield on Saturday 28 November, with two performances on the day: a matinee at 2.00pm and an evening show at 7.00pm. It's a full-scale production, and the company is open about why they're doing it this way. They've built the whole thing around giving young performers an experience that reflects the standards, discipline and excitement of professional theatre, so the cast has been working on character, storytelling, vocal technique, harmonies, movement, staging and ensemble performance from the very first rehearsal. Along the way, they've been learning commitment, teamwork and professionalism on and off stage.

The show itself follows the story you know: Dorothy and her friends, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion, set off to find the mysterious Wizard of Oz and encounter Munchkins, Ozians, flying monkeys and the Wicked Witch of the West. It's built on the well-loved songs, colourful characters and energetic dance numbers that the story is known for. The production is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC, based on the original by L. Frank Baum, with music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E. Y. Harburg, background music by Herbert Stothart and an adaptation by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Behind the scenes, the creative direction and original choreography come from Bloom Theatre Works founder Lizzie, with vocal work, harmonies and additional staging support from assistant director Rosie. The two performances run on the same day, so you can choose between the afternoon and the evening. Tickets are £15, with concessions at £13, plus a booking fee. The Library Theatre is in Sheffield Library on Surrey Street in the city centre, S1 1XZ, and for the evening show, doors open at 6.30pm.