SUFFOLK youngsters are today preparing to perform a major musical - in which Michael Jackson once starred - at Felixstowe's Spa Pavilion.

SUFFOLK youngsters are today preparing to perform a major musical - in which Michael Jackson once starred - at Felixstowe's Spa Pavilion.

Producers have cast the lead roles in the venue's Summer Youth Project production of The Wiz.

The musical is based on the well-known story of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

Michael Jackson starred alongside Diana Ross in the 1978 film adaptation of the musical in which the king of pop played the scarecrow.

Julie Howes, theatre manager, said the first workshop for the 100 strong cast will take place on Sunday .

She added: “The production team have cast the show and we have some excellent talent drawn from across the region in the show. The Summer Youth Project is now in its seventh year and we are extremely excited and looking forward to this year's production.”

The cast is drawn from schools and theatre groups from across the county and is part of the Spa Pavilion's community outreach work.

Directed by Rebecca Darcy, the youth project offers youngsters from the age of 9 to 23 the chance to perform under the guidance of a professional musical director and choreographer in the 900 seat venue.

Miss Howes added: “It is an extremely popular show and a great addition to our summer programme. This production is one of the most ambitious yet.”

The Wiz runs at the Spa Pavilion from august 12 to 15. Tickets are �11.50, concessions �9.50 and are available from the box office on 01394 282126.

Have you been in the Spa Pavlion's Summer Youth Project? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk