Haywards Heath Operatic Society

The Wizard of Oz

26 - 30 October 2010

Director: Rebecca Dowden

Musical Director: Michael Hinton

Choreographer: Hannah Pavey

Rehearsal schedule

A message from the director:

Hello everybody.  I’m really looking forward to working with HHOS again and our journey to Oz.  I know many of you, of all ages, have a special affection for The Wizard of Oz and so I’m very mindful of the responsibility ahead.  The Wizard of Oz is the story of a Kansas farm girl, Dorothy, who dreams herself into a magical land and must overcome the challenges she encounters to find her way home

The version we are presenting is based on the motion picture screenplay and has all the songs you expect to hear, plus scenes and music which never got to the screen.  It incorporates 7 adult roles doubling up as characters from Kansas and Oz.  There will be 40 ensemble characters which will be played by children.  This ensemble will be divided into the Blue company who will play Munchkins and Winkies and the Green company who will play Crows, Trees, Osians, Close Harmony Singers & Jitterbug dancers.   All children will perform at every performance.  Dorothy, although her age is not referred to in the script, is actually 11 years old.  Judy Garland was 16 when she played Dorothy in the movie and made to look younger. This gives us scope regarding her age but I should stress she should be girl and not a woman.  The role of Dorothy is the linchpin of the show so we are looking for an extraordinary performer.  We will cast an understudy who will be part of the Green company.

The Children’s Audition Workshop will give you a chance to work with and show your talents to the production team.  There will be an elimination process at the end of the day and we are anticipating that 60 children will then be invited to audition the following morning.  From that 60, 40 will then be cast.  Those intending to audition for Dorothy should attend the workshop.

This production will maintain all of the things that make The Wizard of Oz what it is – its well loved characters, scary moments, humour, themes of friendship & teamwork etc.  All will be taken to Oz where we can then explore a world with a more contemporary edge.  Blue and Green teams are so called to reflect quirky, costume ideas – think “Wicked” and you’re on the right track.

Michael, Hannah and I look forward to seeing you all at the launch to find out more and ask any questions.

Registered Charity Number: 800597