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West End Swept Up by The Magic of Oz

Posted by Ben on Monday 7th February 2011 at 12:52PM

With advance ticket sales of more than £8.5 million, Andrew Lloyd Webber's latest blockbuster musical - The Wizard of Oz - is certainly sweeping fans up with the magic of Oz as previews begin this week before the show officially opens!
	The 62 year old composer has talked about his desire to create one of the most memorable productions in the history of the London Palladium and brand new songs and extra sequences have been added, alongside elaborate stage designs and some all-star casting, to give the show the best possible chance of being a West End hit for years to come.
Talent Show Winner Makes West End Debut
	18 year old Danielle Hope (left) won the role of 'Dorothy' after beating a host of hopefuls on the BBC talent search "Over the Rainbow". Although the young star is making her West End debut, she will be surrounded by some experienced faces: including former Spamalot actress Hannah Waddingham - who plays the 'Wicked Witch of the West' - and audience favourite Michael Crawford (below left) as 'The Wizard'. So convincing has Wicked Witch Waddingham been in rehearsals that some of the child actors were reportedly reluctant to appear next to her on stage because they were so scared!
London Palladium Becomes the Emerald City
	Based on the spectacularly colourful 1939 MGM movie, The Wizard of Oz is a new adaptation of the all-time classic, reconceived for the stage by the creative team behind The Sound of Music - including Director Jeremy Sams and Chreographer Arlene Phillips. The London Palladium's famous revolving stage is back, which, coupled with incredible lighting and dazzling special effects, brings to life Dorothy's magical adventure in the Emerald City. Renovation work has also seen the the theatre get a welcome facelift, including extra toilets and function spaces.
Swept Up By the Magic of Oz The Wizard of Oz tells the story of farm girl Dorothy who finds herself in the Land of Oz after being swept away by a powerful tornado. To get home, Dorothy must travel along the yellow brick road to find The Wizard of Oz's help. On the way she makes friends with a Scarecrow, a Tin Man and a cowardly Lion, but the Wicked Witch of the West stands in their way and is desperate to get hold of Dorothy's magical ruby slippers. Buy The Wizard of Oz Tickets