BUDDING actors are going somewhere over the rainbow with an exciting new production of the classic tale the Wizard of Oz.

Pupils at St Julian’s school in Newport will tonight perform the premiere of the musical featuring unforgettable characters like the Tin Man, Scarecrow, Wizard, Dorothy and her faithful dog Toto.

Around 35 students rehearsed three times a week with the help of 10 staff who worked backstage creating costumes and make-up, sets and lighting for the show.

Hollie Flannigan, 14, was chosen to play Dorothy Gale for her ability to sing and portray the character in an innocent way.

Drama teacher Lucie Leith, 26, said: “We started the auditions in September after the school holiday and cast Hollie. She is only in year nine but she has a lovely singing voice. She portrays Dorothy in a unique kind of innocent way.”

The musical is based on the play but is close to the film and lasts two-and-a-half hours with a 20-minute interval. The secondary school in Heather Road is inviting people to see the show every evening, at 7pm, until Friday.

Tickets cost £6 for adults and £4 concessions. Call 01633 224 490 for more information.