Brand-new adaptation of The Wizard of Oz coming to Hylands Estate

This summer, families can look forward to a brilliant season of events at Hylands Estate, including a brand-new adaptation of the beloved classic, The Wizard of Oz.

Immersion Theatre brings a spectacular production to the back lawn of Hylands House on Tuesday 15 August.

Immersion Theatre bring high-quality open-air theatre to families

Multi award-nominated Immersion Theatre are best known for their work as producers of high-quality family theatre.

Established in 2010 by Stage One alumni, James Tobias and Rochelle Parry, Immersion produced their first touring show in 2014. Now, the company produce touring critically-acclaimed drama, family theatre, open-air musicals, and large-scale musicals, as well as pantomimes.

In 2022, the company brought the much-loved fairy tale Rapunzel to Hylands’ back lawn. The production received rave reviews from audiences.

The Stage Reviews said of Immersion Theatre: “Immersion provides a masterclass for theatre companies looking to update these classic stories for new audiences.”

Faithful re-telling will have families laughing, shouting, and singing along

Immersion Theatre’s The Wizard of Oz features an original script, which is faithful to the story but has been refreshed for modern day audiences. It features plenty of humour, singing and dancing for the ultimate family fun.

Immersion Theatre’s Artistic Director, James Tobias, has written and is directing the show. He said:

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“I am incredibly excited to be directing the show for the SIXTH time! I always look forward to reviving this show in particular; It’s a firm audience favourite and for good reason. We’ve followed the story everyone knows and loves very closely meaning all your favourite characters take centre stage, and have mixed it with bags of audience participation, comedy for all ages, and some frustratingly catchy songs! This really is an amazing family experience; you’ll laugh, join in, and leave thoroughly entertained having had a really special and above all, fun day out. I can’t wait to welcome you all to Oz!”

James Tobias, Artistic Director, Immersion Theatre

Audiences will enjoy seeing all their favourite characters as Dorothy embarks on a quest to the Emerald City. With her loyal friends: the brainless but cheeky scarecrow, the cowardly lion, and the heartless (literally!) tin man, she embarks through a magical land in search of the mighty and mysterious, Wizard of Oz. Meanwhile the Wicked Witch of the West is determined to stop them by any means necessary!

The bright and colourful outfits and staging are bound to capture the attention of your little ones. And with a host of brand-new songs and plenty of audience participation, it’ll inspire and delight young aspiring thespians.

Lorraine Thorne, Hylands House Manager, says the team can’t wait to welcome Immersion Theatre back for another fantastic show that audiences will just adore:

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“I’m delighted to see the return of Immersion Theatre to Hylands Estate this year, with this classic story that everybody knows.

"Their production last year was so popular with our local residents and visitors alike. It was wonderful to see families enthralled by the cast’s brilliantly funny and enthusiastic performances. Little ones just couldn’t resist dancing and singing along, and we just can’t wait to see that again this summer.”

Lorraine Thorne, Hylands House Manager

As rehearsals have been taking place, the cast of The Wizard of Oz offer a glimpse of what to expect:

Book tickets via the Chelmsford Theatre website

Two shows take place at Hylands Estate on 15 August: 1.00–2.30pm and 4.00–5.30pm. The show includes a 20-minute interval. Tickets start from £9.50 and can be booked via the Chelmsford Theatre website. Parking is included in the ticket price.

So, click your heels and head on down the yellow brick road for a magical family show guaranteed to have you in stitches from beginning to end!