THE Paget Rooms in Penarth were transformed into the magical land of Oz courtesy of the rainbow-coloured array of talent of Razzle Dazzle theatre school last month. The Barry Island based performance group, whose players range from age three to age 16 chose the L Frank Baum classic story for their first full-length production.

The production had a something for everyone, from the heart-warming smiles of the youngest little dazzlers (aged just 3-4 years old) dancing across the stage as the bluebirds over the rainbow to the beautiful individual and ensemble vocal performances, from the belly-laughs at the hilarious physical comedy of the scarecrow to the fear and loathing (plus accompanying audience boos and hisses) of the Wicked Witch of the West.

In addition to the incredible acting and singing, the diversity of dance styles presented with a quality belying the ages of the performers was inspired, allowing a classic novel to be interpreted through dance styles varying from traditional ballet and tap, through jitterbug, to contemporary street dance and even slapstick dance.

The cast, many of whom were experiencing their first public performances, were relaxed, confident and happy throughout the show, testimony to the excellent preparation and direction of Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama graduate, Carmen Brookes, who had evidently ensured that all of the children enjoyed their off-stage and on-stage experiences. One of the backstage hands, Paul Swannick, sums up the ambience of the whole production: “Just like to say a big thank you to the cast/crew of Razzle Dazzle who made me so welcome during the performances of 'The Wizard of Oz'...the cast were extremely attentive to the issues backstage. Not only are they a credit to Carmen Brookes and Razzle Dazzle Theatre School, but to their parents as well. I thoroughly enjoyed the week...thanks again!”

For Carmen, owner-director of Razzle Dazzle, the production was much more than the culmination of months of rehearsals; it also meant the unification of friends who dedicated many hours of hard work to ensure the sets and costumes were ready not only on time, but also to a high standard that many audience members congratulated the team on, as well as reinstating a childhood “am-dram” collaboration with Neil Williams on lighting, who was part of Anwen Little Theatre at the same time as Carmen in their younger days. Neil commented: “Haven't enjoyed myself so much doing a show for ages. Well done Razzle Dazzle Theatre. Congratulations to every one of you. Look forward to lighting you again in the near future. AMAZING!”

For anyone who attended or took part in the shows, it is clear that you don't need to go over the rainbow to find the stars of tomorrow, they are on our own doorstep, under the expert tutelage of Carmen Brookes and her dedicated, talented team.

Razzle Dazzle's next production will be at the Paget Rooms once again, on Thursday, November 20 (one night only, so be sure to book your tickets in advance as it's sure to be a sell-out following the impression that “The Wizard of Oz” had on its audience), and this time they will be performing an original piece, “The Green Fields of France”. Penned by Carmen's husband, Kevin Brookes, this is an emotive and timely study of one family's experience of the Great War.

If you would like ticket information or to find out more about Razzle Dazzle Theatre School or its dance classes with RazDanz, please call 07740 779103.