There was a lot riding on the opening night of this first shot at the much-loved Wizard of Oz by the cast and crew of KAOS Musical Theatre Company.
Its status as a big-screen landmark containing iconic cultural characters means “Wizard” is a step up for any amateur outfit.
So it was a brave choice by debut director Pooee Pitman and the company – but after watching Tuesday’s opening night in Kelso’s Tait Hall, it can safely be said this is a truly magical production, which sets a new benchmark for years to come.
From the youngest performer on stage to leading lady, Rhianne Miller, 17, from Jedburgh, as Dorothy, the performances quite simply shine.
All who have had a role to play in bringing this show to life deserve praise, but the lead actors especially so.
Speaking after the opening night, Pooee said it had been an absolute joy and pleasure to direct and produce for the very first time with KAOS.
“It’s been 75 years since The Wizard of Oz was first screened, and we really hope we have done it justice,” she told us.
A full review and six pages of photographs is published in this week’s edition of The Southern Reporter.