One of the best-known and lasting children’s stories of all time, The Wizard of Oz, will be brought to life at the Grand Opera House this summer, by some of Belfast’s most talented 10-18 year olds. Over 300 young people auditioned for roles in Northern Ireland’s largest youth theatre project, The Grand Opera House Summer Youth Production.
Proudly sponsored by Phoenix Energy, the Theatre’s Summer Youth Project will stage an unmissable production with all of the characters and songs from the iconic MGM movie. Performed by the hugely talented cast of young people, including Belfast’s very own Alex Jemphrey, as the Cowardly Lion, Conall McGinn, as the Tin Man, Ciara McKenna, as Aunt Em and leading lady Dorothy will be performed by Caroline McMichael from Jordanstown.
Belfast local, Caroline McMichael, commented; “I am really excited to be involved in this year’s Summer Youth Production at the Grand Opera. It was the best feeling ever to be told that I would be performing the lead role as Dorothy, who is such an iconic character. I was really proud of myself and couldn’t wait to tell my family, who are so thrilled for me. The Wizard of Oz, is such a timeless classic, no matter what age you are and to be performing the story on the Grand Opera House stage will be such an unforgettable experience, I just can’t wait for rehearsals to start now!”
Ian Wilson, Chief Executive of the Grand Opera House, added; “Every year, I am always very proud to welcome the Summer Youth Production to the Grand Opera House. Returning now for its eighth year, to support local youth and the development of their boundless talent in singing and dancing on Northern Ireland’s most iconic stage, which we hope will progress their future careers.
“The level of young talent involved across all aspects of the Summer Youth Project cannot be underestimated from the cast to lighting, sound, wardrobe, stage crew and musicians. The work and dedication from our young people is outstanding and this is why, the Grand Opera House takes great pleasure in giving tomorrow’s talent the stage that they so deserve.”
The two-week project will culminate in five performances of The Wizard of Oz, from Thursday 26 to Sunday 29 July 2018. If you would like to follow the yellow brick road to the Grand Opera House to see this year’s Summer Youth Production of The Wizard of Oz, please visit goh.co.uk for ticket information, tickets can also be booked on 028 9024 1919.