Teens ready for Empire Theatre

Aug 7 2008 by Vicky Anderson, Liverpool Daily Post

MORE than 100 talented teens from all over Merseyside are getting their chance to perform in a full-scale musical production at the Empire theatre.

This year’s Live Nation Stage Experience project, The Wiz, is already under way, with performances coming up next week.

After a fortnight of rehearsals, the cast of 120 young people are performing in four shows from August 14 to 16.

As well as the cast, 13 local young people interested in behind- the-scenes theatrical work will undertake technical placements.

They will be supported throughout the project by a team of professionals.

The Wiz is a "super soul musical" with Dorothy’s adventures in Oz set to an energetic mix of rock gospel.

Many know the story of the Wizard of Oz, but this musical version opened on Broadway in 1975 and was made into a film with Michael Jackson and Diana Ross two years later.

After a process of auditions and interviews the principal cast members, aged between 11 and 21, are Antonia Nethercote, from Aintree, who plays Dorothy; Shaun Roberts, from Whiston, who will play the Tin Man; and The Wiz will be played by David Moorst, of St Helens.

Walton’s Craig Richardson will play the Cowardly Lion, while Gerard Kelly, from Liverpool, plays the Scarecrow.

Costumes and sets for the show are taking shape, with much of the material for these has been generously donated by local individuals and companies.

The Live Nation Stage Experience project aims to develop the venues’ involvement in the Community and offer young people from the local area, from all backgrounds the chance to take part in a full-scale musical production.