Thanks to the kindness of others, almost 200 excited youngsters from Bethany School in Boscombe followed the Yellow Brick Road to Ferndown’s Barrington Theatre to see The Wizard Of Oz.
The panto adventure was organised by the Wessex branch of Variety, the Children’s Charity.
What a fantastic show it was. The children, aged from seven to nine, were enchanted by the story, booing and hissing when the wicked witch came on stage and cheering with delight each time Glinda the Good appeared.
There were classic sketches, great songs, a touch of magic and some skillful acrobatics. And, of course, there was Toto the dog, played by Bumble, a delightful and well-behaved Puggle.
Frances Cornelius, chairman of Variety Wessex, thanked everyone who contributed to the theatre visit, saying: “The children had an amazing experience. So many people’s Christmas traditions include a pantomime but this is far too costly for many families now.
“Thank you Shan and the Bournemouth Boys Club for funding for children who would otherwise miss out.”
She also thanked Laguna Coaches for always taking the children safely to and from events and Judy, Lorraine and Jenny for being there to represent Variety and make everything run smoothly.
Elisabeth Rawson Jones pastoral lead at Bethany said: “The cast were amazing. It is a classic story but new to many of our pupils who really enjoyed their visit.
“What fun to see Krazy Kev as the scarecrow!
“He is a favourite with us all. Thank you Frances and Variety for funding this opportunity – we are so grateful that through 2022 you have organised so many days for our children.
“It makes a huge difference, giving them memories to treasure.
“But the biggest thank you must be for the cast and production team who put together such an amazing show. It was absolutely fantastic.”
See review, opposite page