Charlie Crocker

When the all time classic musical, The Wizard of Oz, came to the Mayflower theatre in Southampton, Charlie Crocker went behind the scenes to find out what goes into setting up such a lavish production.

This musical - based on the 1939 film - featured all the classic numbers, including We're off to see the Wizard, Follow the Yellow Brick Road and of course Over the Rainbow.

Cast of Wizard of Oz

In the story Dorothy (Lydia Griffiths) and her new friends, the Scarecrow (Gary Wilmot), Tin Man (Russ Abbot) and Cowardly Lion (Gregor Fisher) set off on the road to O, whilst trying to keep her ruby slippers away from the evil Wicked Witch of the West (Matthew Kelly).

Charlie tracked down some of the stars of the show, tried on their wigs, discovered what goes into designing the scenery and costumes and got the chance to play the triangle with the orchestra!

During the dress rehearsal, Charlie presented her whole show live from the stage, dressing rooms and stalls.

Her favourite moment was larking about with Matthew Kelly in her Dorothy pigtails and bright blue munchkin wig.

Charlie finally gets her ruby slippers

And, of course, being a lover of shoes she wanted to see if she could get her hands on some ruby slippers of her own.

A quest that was eventually successful!