Halesowen to transform into Oz as classic pantomime set to hit the stage

Shoppers at The Cornbow Centre in Halesowen on Saturday could have been forgiven for thinking they had been transported to the merry old land of Oz.

The cast of Startime Variety's pantomime The Wizard of Oz were out in numbers promoting the show, including Dorothy and her friends the cowardly lion, the tin man and scarecrow.

Halesowen Town Centre, where Startime Variety were plugging their upcoming production of: The Wizard of Oz. The Wizard (in top hat) is Chris Ashford, Tinman: Holly Mills, Dorothy: Georgina Philpott, Scarecrow: Sara Aldridge, — Halesowen town centre, where Startime Variety were plugging their upcoming production of The Wizard of Oz. The Wizard (in top hat) is Chris Ashford, Tinman: Holly Mills, Dorothy: Georgina Philpott, Scarecrow: Sara Aldridge,

Made in 1939, the film and stage musical has delighted audiences for 85 years and the story has also proved popular recently with the success of Wicked at the box office.

Startime Variety was formed in 1967 and since then has been performing an annual pantomime and another show in July.

This year will be poignant as founder of the company Christine Davenport MBE died in 2024.

Publicity officer Chris Ashford said it would be a poignant time for the cast but they were all determined to put on a show.

He said: "Our pantomimes have become a much-loved tradition at this time of year and we spend many weeks rehearsing to get them right.

"Expect the traditional fun and laughter along with the classic story of Dorothy and her friends making their way to the land of Oz with all the things they encounter along the way."

Halesowen Town Centre, where Startime Variety were plugging their upcoming production of: The Wizard of Oz. Pock (orange hair) is: Lisa Whitehouse, The Wizard (in top hat) is Chris Ashford, Tinman: Holly Mills, Dorothy: Georgina Philpott, Scarecrow: Sara Aldridge, The Witch with the lion for today only: Gemma Shaw and Rowan Shaw, Jade : Madison Meese.

The Wizard of Oz - The Pantomime takes place at Halesowen Town Hall from Thursday, January 30 to Sunday, February 2 with tickets available at www.seaty.co.uk/startime-oz or by calling the box office on 07942 337498.