There’s no place like home for Leeds Playhouse this Christmas as it stages the spectacular masterpiece The Wizard of Oz in the newly redeveloped Quarry theatre. Directed by Leeds Playhouse Artistic Director James Brining (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Sunshine on Leith), this new production of the cherished classic will play from 20th November 2019 until 25th January 2020.
A timeless story of adventure and friendship, young Dorothy and her little dog Toto are caught in a cyclone and whisked away to the magical Land of Oz. With a new pair of ruby slippers and friends Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion by her side, Dorothy follows the yellow brick road to the magical Emerald City in search of the all-powerful Wizard, who she hopes will grant her heart’s desire.
Based on the novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum and the much-adored 1939 film starring Judy Garland, this thrilling family musical features iconic songs audiences know and love, including ‘If I Only Had a Brain’, ‘Follow the Yellow Brick Road’ and ‘Over the Rainbow’.
Leeds Playhouse Artistic Director James Brining said: “Christmas at Leeds Playhouse is always a magical experience and 2019 is set to be extra-special. We can’t wait to welcome everyone into our redeveloped building for this enchanting adventure story for the whole family.
The Wizard of Oz will be the centrepiece of our reopening season here at Leeds Playhouse. It is a household favourite full of adventure, excitement and magic and I can’t wait to bring the story to life in a fresh, thrilling way for 2019. It’s going to be incredible to see the new Playhouse come alive, and to share with audiences the freshly refurbished theatres, restaurants and bars. With the opening of the new public park on our doorstep, there should be a real festive buzz here on Quarry Hill.”
In the redeveloped theatre audiences can expect improved access into and around the building, contemporary seating in the auditoria, new hospitality areas and a dramatic new city-facing entrance opposite the Leeds City Bus Station. The Playhouse building is due to re-open from Autumn 2019, with the full programme of productions to be announced.
The theatre will also host a sing-a-long performance of The Wizard of Oz, inviting audience to dress up and join in the fun. Relaxed and Dementia Friendly performances will also be available, and a selection of bespoke wrap-around and in-school activity led by the Playhouse’s award-winning Creative Engagement department.
The Wizard of Oz plays in Leeds Playhouse’s Quarry theatre from 20th November 2019 to 25th January 2020. Tickets are on sale to Playhouse Pass members, My Playhouse members and Patrons from Wednesday 30th January at 10am, with tickets on general sale from 10am on Saturday 9th February.
Full cast and creative team to be announced.
The Wizard of Oz
Leeds Playhouse’s Quarry Theatre
20th November 2019 – 25th January 2020
Box office 0113 213 7700. Book online www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk
THE WIZARD OF OZ
By L. Frank Baum
With Music and Lyrics by Harold Arlen and E. Y. Harburg
Background Music by Herbert Stothart
Dance and Vocal Arrangements by Peter Howard
Orchestration by Larry Wilcox as revised by Toby Higgins
Adapted by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company
Based upon the Classic Motion Picture owned by Turner Entertainment Co. and distributed in all media by Warner Bros.
