HODGSON High School in Poulton will be performing a magical musical show called The Wiz each evening until Saturday (April 8).

This year's Easter production is a rock musical version of The Wizard of Oz, but senior teacher Bill Allison said it will be bigger and brighter than previous shows -- a feat which, in his own words, "has taken some doing."

Bill said: "The wizard rules in a wonderland where chic meets kitsch and Dorothy's amazing adventures are constantly overshadowed by danger that shows its face in some surprising and shocking ways." Most people know the enchanting tale by heart -- farm girl Dorothy is whisked away by a cyclone and wakes up in a fantastic faraway land populated by witches and miniature people called Munchkins.

She is befriended by a host of strange characters who help her search for the famous wizard who can aid her return to Kansas.

But The Wiz, made famous by the film starring Michael Jackson and Diana Ross, is different to the original because the music is a whole lot funkier.

More than 100 pupils aged between 11 and 16 are taking part in the show -- some on stage acting and singing, while others will be off stage playing live to accompany them.

The show begins at 7.30pm and tickets cost £3. Pay on the door or call the school on (01253) 882815 to book.