OUR talented young people were the centre of attention as they staged a production of a classic tale.

Over a three-day run, praise from delighted audiences was music to the ears of the East Ayrshire Youth Theatre (EAYT) for their version of the Wizard of Oz.

‘Outstanding’, ‘incredible’ and ‘memorable’ were just a few of the accolades which reflected on the success of the show at Kilmarnock’s Grand Hall.

For this modern take on such a popular musical, the team from EAYT took a brave decision to stage the show in an indoor amphitheatre.

The yellow brick road providing a stunning platform for the young actors, who yet again impressed family and friends with a thoroughly professional performance.

Volunteers from the Dean Castle Textile Team had added to the spectacle by creating some colourful costumes and positive feedback flowed from those watching.

Youth theatre director Craig Glover said: “We are delighted with the audience response to The Wizard of Oz.

“We decided to take a departure from the tradition of staging a show in the Palace Theatre and adopted an unusual set up, involving a yellow brick road running through the audience in the Grand Hall.

“The production was described as immersive by one parent, which is exactly what we aimed for.

“It gave the children of EAYT an alternative perspective of theatre and brought them up close and personal with their audiences.

“We had the outstanding support of our in house technical team who tackled all the unusual challenges with great care and worked with us to develop the production in the new space.”

While the current term of EAYT is already under way, there is still time for budding actors from Cumnock and Doon Valley to join and be part of their next production, Hairspray.

If your child would like to join, or for more information and term prices, email craig.glover@east-ayrshire.gov.uk, including your child’s name, age and a contact telephone number for yourself.

Alternatively, call East Ayrshire Leisure’s performing arts team on 01563 554358.