THEATRE-goers these days are used to being reminded to switch off their mobile phones before the curtain goes up.
But phones and other hi-tech gadgets feature prominently in a new production of The Wizard of Oz, being staged by Didcot school pupils.
Students from St Birinus School and Didcot Girls’ School perform the musical next week.
Director Andrew Walker, head of music at St Birinus, said: “We wanted to bring the show right up to date to reflect the 21st century, so there are lots of mentions of mobile phones and iPads.”
Wearing the red slippers as Dorothy will be St Birinus sixth-former Sally Walker, while Year 10’s Nick Hansen, Year 11’s Daniel Stainthorp and Year Seven’s Joe Clinton play the Scarecrow, the Tinman and the Lion.
Miss Walker, 16, said: “This is my first role since I started school so I’m really looking forward to the opening night.”
The show opens at St Birinus School, Mereland Road, next Wednesday and continues until the Saturday, with performances starting, at 7.30pm.
Tickets cost £8 for adults and £5 for concessions.
They are available from the reception at St Birinus School or from pupil services at Didcot Girls’ School, in Manor Crescent.
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