This take on the classic Wizard of Oz story is set in a classroom where creativity has no place. Dorothy (played by Portia Oti) is a dreamer, turning in poetry instead of equations. The Scarecrow (played by Jaih Betote Dipito Akwa) is teased for his dyslexia. The Tin Man (Michael Ureta) and Lion (Corey Culverwell) are outcasts.

Through a set of upbeat dance numbers set to the likes of Justin Timberlake and Michael Jackson, the characters slip into the wondrous world of Oz. This time, though, the story is told  only by the brilliant young dancers’ expressions and movements. When Dorothy, shod in her ruby sneakers, sets off to Emerald City High with Toto (the accomplished Michael McNeish), she dances around the audience with such joy and hope, that the audience can’t help but to feel part of her journey.

The set is cleverly designed to draw the audience into the fantastical Oz. A screen flashes drawings, like sketching made during a boring lecture, that help flesh out the production. But the true standout is the dancing and young people that bring it to life. Kate Prince’s choreography keeps the story exciting and energetic, while also showcasing the dancers’ talents. Culverwell’s Lion particularly steals the show with his acrobatic and soulful movements.

The show, running until 1^st September, is entertaining and intelligent, and wonderful for both adults and kids –  you’ll leave in awe. (Words: Barbara Cole) 

For more info, visit: http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/zoo-nations-groove-on-down-th-74861

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If that all sounds a bit Austin Powers to you, you’ll be pleased to hear that since it’s targeted, in theory, to a younger audience its probably less “Yeah, Baby, Yeah!” and more about dealing with the growing pains and pleasures of development and change in a magical and thought-provoking way. And if that sounds a bit heavy for you, it isn’t –  the aim of Theatre-Rites is to use energy, art and movement to bring about magic and inspire the imagination and we think, with an award-winning team of Arthur Pita and Sue Buckmaster, this show makes a delightful change from the usual Christmas Panto.

Grownups often hear  the words “youth theatre” and think that it isn’t for them  but this shouldn’t be the case as it can, no doubt, teach us all a thing or two about where our Mojo might be hiding. So prepare to take your inner child on a journey of self discovery! (Words: Laura Thornley and Tosin Omilaju) 

Theatre-Rites is on at the Barbican from December 16-31st.  Click here for more info.

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It will be interesting to see what the pubescent tykes find at the borders, particularly considering the aspersions society places on the climate they now grow up in. The limits of youth may be crumbling as the freedom of information grows – I’m thinking access to adult themes through computer games and the Internet – but since the whole of the arts buzzes off boundary-breaking they might be hard pushed to beat them at their own game (Tracey Emin being a good example of this). Either way, it’s definitely a battle I will be getting a ringside seat for. (Words: Laura Thornley)

Late at Tate takes places on June 3rd, 6-10pm.  For more info, visit the Tate Britain website.

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