Oasis Academy Leesbrook students wow audiences with magical production of The Wizard of Oz

Oasis Academy Leesbrook captivated audiences as students staged a spectacular production of The Wizard of Oz . . . delivering what has been hailed as the academy's best production yet.

Pupils from Years 7 to 10 began rehearsals for the show back in October, committing to regular after school rehearsals, sometimes totalling around four hours each week. 

Over the course of nine months, the cast and crew dedicated countless hours to perfecting every scene, song and dance, resulting in a production that surpassed the expectations of a typical secondary school performance. 

It was an academy wide effort, with the art department, music department, caretakers and technicians all working tirelessly behind the scenes to create stunning handmade props, impressive sets, professional sound and spectacular lighting.

The production was led by the academy's dedicated drama team, Miss Wither, Miss Kelly and Miss Nowzys, whose passion and commitment helped bring the much loved classic to life. 

Parents and carers also played a vital role by supporting students throughout months of rehearsals, helping them remain committed from October right through to the final performances in July. 

Sherri Wither, Head of Drama, said: “Our department continues to go from strength to strength with a 100 per cent pass rate for the 2025 G.C.S.E drama cohort and a number of grade 7-9's.

"This reflects a culture of commitment, passion, and resilience that has been forstered over the past four years at Leesbrook. Our KS3 students have been working on their theatrical skills, but alongside this, we encourage them to develop their social and emotional attributes, too. Students in year 7 and 8 now all work in mixed-gender groups, with those teams changing each half-term, and it has been a delight to see them communicating in a respectful way, while focusing on the work. 

“Outside of the classroom, we have had a number of successful performances, including the year 10 devised G.C.S.E exam, which was a huge success with all students achieving a grade 8 or 9 in this particular performance.

"They approached difficult topics with sensitivity, intelligence, and creativity, which was plain to see on show nights. Year 11 also created some excellent performances for their scripted exam, these are marked by a visiting examiner and so no results yet, but the showcase was excellent and a true testament to the work and skills of the Drama team. 

“The highlight of our year, has to be our whole-school production "The Wizard of Oz" with some standout performances that will be remembered for years to come.

"This was our best show yet and met a professional standard that surpasses the usual expectations for a high-school performance. It was an absolute delight to behold, and a huge thank-you to all parents and carers who supported their young person, by allowing them to come to an abundance of rehearsals, sometimes four hours a week, after school.

"The students have shown tenacity, resilience, dedication, and bravery, but most impressive is that we started rehearsing in October, and they stuck it out through the tough times, all the way until July, to create something truly magical.” 

Mrs Andrea Mitchell, Principal at Oasis Academy Leesbrook, added: “Performing arts have always held a special place in my heart, having begun my career as a drama teacher. I have seen first-hand the incredible impact they can have on young people, not only in developing confidence and creativity, but also resilience, teamwork and the courage to step outside their comfort zones. 

"The Wizard of Oz is a shining example of what our students can achieve when they are given the opportunity to flourish. Every student involved should be immensely proud of what they have accomplished. Their dedication over many months has resulted in a truly outstanding production, and I would like to thank our exceptional drama team, staff, parents and carers for making it all possible.

"The arts are an essential part of education, and we remain committed to ensuring every young person has the opportunity to discover and develop their talents.” 

Families, members of the local community, staff and supporters packed the audience across both performances, celebrating the remarkable achievements of Leesbrook's young performers and the thriving performing arts culture within the academy. 

The Wizard of Oz tells the story of Dorothy Gale, a young girl from Kansas who, along with her faithful dog Toto, is swept away by a tornado to the magical Land of Oz. After accidentally defeating the Wicked Witch of the East, Dorothy sets off along the Yellow Brick Road in search of the mysterious Wizard of Oz, hoping he can help her return home. 

Along the way, she is joined by the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion, each searching for something they believe they lack. Together, they discover that courage, kindness, intelligence and friendship often come from within. 

Filled with unforgettable songs, magical moments and timeless characters, The Wizard of Oz is a heartwarming story about friendship, determination and believing in yourself, making it a fitting showcase for the extraordinary talent, commitment and resilience of Oasis Academy Leesbrook's students.