I didn't stop smiling for the entire show (well apart from when Dorothy cried).

It was literally a feast of colour with superb acting, singing and spectacular costumes. I was still smiling as I drove home!

The Wizard of Oz opened on Wednesday night at Nelson Musical Theatre in Atawhai Drive (beside Founders) to a full house. There was a colourful yellow brick road leading through the centre of the audience and onto the stage, which made it a simple but very effective set.

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The Wizard of Oz is a timeless classic where Dorothy and Toto embark on an adventurous journey to meet the Wizard of Oz.

All of the actors, singers and dancers performed with such warmth, enthusiasm and passion which delighted the audience. Performances were almost entirely faultless and all are to be congratulated.

Rebecca Myers was outstanding in the leading role of Dorothy, both in acting and singing. She embraced the role to perfection and I almost "saw" Judy Garland several times.

Her voice singing of all songs and particularly Over the Rainbow was beautiful.

The performances of the entire cast were dedicated. Especially enjoyable and humorous were Lynley Rutherford as Madam Marvel/OZ Guard, Emma Pejkovic as The Wicked Witch of the West and Michaela Sheehan as the Lion. Toto was a real cutie. The Scarecrow, Ally Hossain, and Tinman, Tegan Ure, were both fabulous in their roles.

Each ensemble sung and danced beautifully and their harmony was glorious.

This 60th anniversary production is an outstanding success.

Peta Spooner, director and choreographer, must be congratulated and again Peta's heart and passion for musical theatre showed on stage with the immense talent of all who are involved.

Congratulations to the production team and special mention to the wardrobe team of Barbara Lane and Coral Hausmann, the costumes were colourful and spectacular.

This is a production not to be missed and I recommend this to everyone who enjoys musical theatre.

Create memories for your children and grandchildren by treating them to this memorable musical production, which finishes on Saturday 4th August.

- Janina Goodman Stuff / Nelson Mail

‍Photo: Francesca Beckett

Tickets to Nelson Musical Theatre's production of The Wizard of Oz are available from iTICKET with closing night on 4 August 2018.