The junior members of the Children’s Theatre Company Ipswich are off to see the Wizard of Oz.

The five to 14 year olds stage the magical musical at Woodbridge’s Seckford Theatre from February 16-17.

Normally performed at Easter, this year’s show was brought forward so families didn’t have to sacrifice holiday time and to give the company extra breathing space before this summer’s production of Les Miserables.

“It has all the songs from the film and have everything else, it’s just a bit shorter so it’s perfect for young families,” says artistic director Bridie Rowe.

The youngsters have been hard at work since last October, with choreographer Rosie Fuller and musical director Rachel Robinson running rehearsals while Bridie focused on the company’s smash adaptation of Hairspray at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds.

“I’ve overseen it and they’ve done fantastically. The younger ones love being munchkins because they get to be their own individial type of munchkin.

“The older ones love being jitterbugs and the main characters are so fun, it’s magical and there are a couple of special effects, I will say no more.”

Bridie adds with the younger ones, who are just starting their stage career, it’s about being more supportive and encouraging and making sure they enjoy it, especially in a show like The Wizard of Oz.

The company chose it for several reasons, including the range of characters. With the talent available, Bridie likes to share out roles and make sure there’s lots for everybody to do.

It’s important it feels like a group effort, especially for the younger cast members.

“I wouldn’t want to do a show all about the principals becasue what’s the point of them being in it? I’ve got a few cast members old enough to audition this September to move up to the senior company; they’re the future of CTC.”

The Wizard of Oz is a family favourite.

“It has fun songs take me back to my childhood. I used to watch this all the time. You hear the songs and they just make you happy,” adds Bridie.

“I used to be terrified of the wicked witch and I remember hiding behind a cushion, when I was younger, I don’t do that now.”

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