The magical story has been a favourite around the world for many decades and centres on the innocent but plucky Kansas farm girl Dorothy Gale and her efforts to get home when a tornado sweeps her into the magical world of Oz. 

Along the way, she makes friends with the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, battles the Wicked Witch of the West, and makes her way to the Emerald City and the Wizard.

“I’m very biased, but I believe this show is going to be so wonderful,” says director Lorraine Monshing. 

“The leads in this production ... are magical. Add to that the amazing support cast of 24 young talented children, plus 20 talented adults on stage and the musicians, as well as the vast amount of people behind the scenes, making, building, creating and organizing, costumes, sets, props, dance, programmes, lighting, sound, and more.

“It takes a lot of talented skilled people over 80 in total, with limited resources to produce a show of this size and all are working hard to create the magic.”

The play runs from September 15 to 17, with performances st 7.30pm each day, and a 2pm matinee on Saturday, September 17.

Wangaratta woman Amy Hill, playing Dorothy, has appeared in many Players productions over the past 10 years.

She is a big fan of The Wizard of Oz, with the movie being her first introduction to musicals as a child.

“Dorothy is the quintessential child heroine, an open minded and spirited girl with the world at her feet,” Ms Hill says.

“To me, the beauty of it lies in its message, a timeless message that has lasted over 100 years and is still relevant today.

“That message is of hope, strength, the power of believing in yourself and others, and most notably, the importance of family and friends.”

She encouraged people of all ages to come and see the show.

“As well as a night of entertainment to kick off the school holidays, you will be supporting your local theatre company, Wangaratta Players, a company that enriches the lives of many,” she says.