Real dog meets wizard show

Christina Keen, Cael Fisher, Jessica McMahon and Maxwell Pratt as the main cast.

A real life dog will take centre stage in Beaconshills College Pakenham’s latest production of The Wizard of Oz.
As Dorothy’s beloved pooch Toto, Nelson is set to steal the spotlight in the upcoming musical, running from 4 to 6 May at the Lois Maghanoy Centre for the Performing Arts.
Nelson and the 70-strong cast comprising of the school’s Year 5 to 12 students will be accompanied by a live orchestra, as they bring Dorothy’s adventures in Oz to life.
Director Amara Jensen said it had been 20 years since Beaconhills first staged the show, so it was “no better time to step, once again, ‘over the rainbow’.”
She said preparing a show of this magnitude took months of hard work, collaboration and dedication, but the benefits for students were immense.
“The theatre can expand your view of the world and encourage innovative, engaged thinking and compassion,” Ms Jensen said.
“I never tire of working with students on-stage and seeing their confidence and skill grow, amidst all the laughter, excitement and pure joy of the performing arts.”
The production, held at the school’s Pakenham campus auditorium, is suitable for all ages.
Tickets for The Wizard of Oz can be booked online through the college shop under the resources page of the website: www.beaconhills.vic.edu.au