For some 500 children across the Hunter, the two week school holiday break will be filled with long days of singing, dancing and rehearsals in preparation for the Wizard of Oz Arena Spectacular.
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But for Mahala Fisher, 14, and sisters Zoe, 11, and Mikayla Molloy, 14, it is the experience of a lifetime.
The trio from Medowie are part of a 500-strong ensemble cast, made up with children of all ages, that will perform in the arena spectacular in Newcastle at the end of April.
"We've always loved Wizard of Oz," Mikayla said on behalf of herself and Zoe. "We both love [musical] Wicked, which is the back story for Glinda and Elphaba, who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. To perform in Wizard of Oz will be just amazing."
After being selected for the ensemble cast the girls took part in a boot camp in mid-2018 where they learned the songs and dances.
The April school holiday will bring all the cast members together to perfect the songs and dances, and for full dress rehearsals before the very first show on April 26.
Mikayla, who said she has a passion for singing and stage work, and Zoe are new to the performing arts.
While Mahala, who has been dancing for 10 years, has stage and production experience, the scale of the arena spectacular is also new to her.
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Each of the girls said they are enjoying being part of the experience, particularly in making new friends and acting and being treated as professionals.
The ensemble cast, which is broken up into elements that corresponds with ages and levels of stage experience, each have five costume changes in the show.
On top of traditional stage props to set the scene, the production also features a nine metre tall LED screen that shows animations of Kansas, Munchkinland, the cornfield and the poppy field, Emerald City and the Witch's castle.
Four shows of the Wizard of Oz Arena Spectacular will be staged at Newcastle Entertainment Centre between April 26 and 28.
The Examiner has one family pass to give away to the opening performance on Friday, April 26 starting 7pm.
To win, send your name and daytime contact details in an email titled "Wizard" to portstephens@fairfaxmedia.com.au. The winner will be notified by 5pm on Tuesday, April 23.
