Latest News

The Sixth Form Bolton Bring Magic to the Stage with Outstanding Wizard of Oz Production

Earlier this year, students from The Sixth Form Bolton captivated audiences with an outstanding production of The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition.

Based on L. Frank Baum’s classic story and the iconic 1939 film, the show follows Dorothy and her dog Toto, who are swept from Kansas to the magical Land of Oz by a tornado. Determined to return home, Dorothy journeys to the Emerald City alongside the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion, each hoping the Wizard will grant their wishes, while the Wicked Witch of the West pursues her.

The cast brought together first- and second-year students studying a wide range of subjects, including Criminology, Drama, Graphics, Performing Arts and Psychology. Heidi Winrow, a former Sharples High School student, led the production as Dorothy, while Zahra Mirzai, formerly of Rivington & Blackrod High School, impressed audiences as the Wicked Witch.

The production was met with an enthusiastic response from audiences of staff, students, families and governors across two highly attended performances.

Students spoke passionately about their experience of being part of the show. Mia Clarke described it as “a reminder of why I love theatre,” adding that “it’s amazing when a cast becomes more than just a group of people and instead forms a group of friends who share the same passion and create something magical.”

Joshua Grundy highlighted the excitement of performing, saying, “The thrill of being on stage and performing with the cast was incredible… rehearsals were full of energy, and everyone was supportive and encouraging.”

For Macy Kinner, the experience was transformative: “Being part of The Wizard of Oz has helped me step out of my comfort zone… it’s been one of my highlights of college.”

Keelie Matthews also reflected on the sense of enjoyment and growth, describing the production as “a joy” and adding that “performing the songs and dances on stage was so much fun.”

Taylor Cunningham praised the atmosphere of the production, saying it “brought out my fun and energetic side,” while Ryley Greenwood described working both on stage and behind the scenes as “an amazing experience” and “a highlight of my first year.”

The production was directed and produced by Sixth Form staff Samantha Lawther, Tom Mill, Olivia Cort and Paul Cass, with musical accompaniment from Teacher of Music Matthew Routley and technical support from Andrew Farrer and Will Broome.

Reflecting on the show’s success, Samantha Lawther said:

“This was definitely one of my favourite shows to produce and has been on my wish list for so long. I even played the Wicked Witch in my younger years so I was really excited to direct this role.  We decided to perform traverse, like a catwalk style, which gave us all kinds of exciting challenges but it turned out to be the best decision, as it made the show so immersive and creative for the audience.  Such a fun show from start to finish and the audiences were brilliant.”