Head to the wonderful land of Oz this Christmas - courtesy of The BOA Group - for their panto at The Old Rep Theatre. With a principal cast of professional local actors, and an ensemble of performers from their academies - BOA Stage and Screen Productions and BOA Creative, Digital and Performing Arts, the production is a Birmingham endeavor from top to ruby-slippered toe.

This is hardly surprising, given that the show is directed by Brummie legend Lorna Laidlaw, and Tom Whalley’s script is bolstered by comedy dramaturgy from Janice Connolly - better known as her comedy alter-ego, Mrs Barbara Nice. As you’d expect, the gags flow free, with plenty of moments that got the audience giggling.

The show definitely qualifies as ‘The Wizard of Oz goes Panto’, featuring the characters loved by millions and a story that will be very familiar to fans of the 1939 film - all injected with plenty of slapstick silliness. A selection of themed songs accompany the story, with references to everything from Kermit’s Rainbow Connection to Shaggy’s Boombastic.

The core characters are played by professional actors - the majority of whom trained in Birmingham, or have long-standing connections with the city. Jaiden Tsang plays Dorothy, accompanied at all times by her little dog Toto, who also has a lot to say - provided you speak “Woof”. As is traditional, the farmers of Kansas are played by actors who double as Dorothy’s brain, heart, and courage lacking pals. Julie Baker plays the Scarecrow, Oraine Johnson the body-popping Tinman, and Jordan Laidley the Cowardly Lion. 

Denise Pitter plays Aunt Em before transforming into the Good Witch of the North, Glinda - with a great voice, and a fair few nods and winks to the audience. Matthew Christmas appears as Uncle Henry, before making a dramatic re-appearance as the titular Wizard, and Avital Kagan is positively dastardly as the Wicked Witch of the West. 

The students of BOA may still be in training, but the production is elevated by impressive visuals and design. Ebrahim Nazier’s set design morphs and unfolds, transforming the stage in the blink of an eye, and Leanne Fitchett’s costume design is big, bold and innovative. The lighting design by Richard G Jones was dazzling - in turn conjuring up a twister, snow, and an unforgettable rainbow. 

Most importantly, the audience had a great time - booing the witch, roaring with the lion, and cheering on the heroes. There will doubtless be many friends and family of the BOA students in the crowd throughout - rightfully brimming with pride - but for anyone keen to make a festive trip to Oz (via Weoley Castle), don’t hesitate. Follow the yellow brick road to The Old Rep Theatre!

Four Stars

The Wizard of Oz was reviewed on Saturday 30 November by Jessica Clixby at Birmingham’s Old Rep Theatre, where it runs until Tuesday 31 December.