QUEEN Elizabeth’s School’s Theatre Academy is back in action with a stunning production of "The Wiz", from February 1 to 5.

This super soul musical is a creative retelling of L Frank Baum’s iconic "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz".

Directed and choreographed by QE’s Head of Drama Vicky Evans, with musical direction from Lucy Welsman, "The Wiz" follows Dorothy and her faithful dog Toto on their adventures to the Emerald City of Oz where she encounters and befriends a host of colourful characters.

The 1975 Broadway production of "The Wiz" won seven Tony Awards, including Best Music and went on to have revivals in New York, London, San Diego and the Netherlands.

The resulting film version starred Diana Ross as Dorothy and Michael Jackson as the scarecrow.

Vicky Evans said: “After the challenges of the past 20 months we are so excited to be able to get back on stage and do what we do best, offering our local community the opportunity to watch and enjoy a fantastic musical performed by our incredibly talented students.

"The cast have been rehearsing with real dedication, determination and enthusiasm and I am full of admiration for their efforts.

"We do hope you will be able to join us, for what promises to be a fabulous evening of musical entertainment.”

Show time is fast approaching and tickets are selling fast so the advice is get them now if you don’t want to miss out!

Performances will be at 7.30pm each evening from Tuesday, February 1 to Saturday, February 5 and there will also be a 2.30pm Saturday matinee.

It will be staged at the QE Drama Hall, Western Road.

Tickets, priced at £12 for adults, £10 for students, are available from QE School Libraries, telephone 01363 778365.

This amateur production of "The Wiz" is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd: www.concordtheatricals.co.uk .