Colne Engaine Dramatic Society presented The Wizard Of Oz last week to huge first night acclaim.

Director Jan Kavanagh’s inspirationally chosen version allowed cast and crew an ideal vehicle for their talents.

Caroline Lingley oozed confidence as Dorothy, while husband, Darren, strode the stage as if he owned it.

His Aunty Emm became a real panto dame, transfixing with aplomb, their Five Bells’ customers in the audience.

Andrew Scott’s scatter-brain Scarecrow, Stephen Hector delightful, deep-throated Lion and Dom Casey’s gorgeously camp Tin Man, excelled.

So too did Lil Harris and Belinda Hector, as very charismatic monkeys and Sheri Hodgson, full of stage presence as Harry Trotter.

Song and dance captain, Michelle Sparks, made a terrific contribution to the action.

Outstanding costumes from Jo Davidson and awesome sets from Dom Casey and Ian Pike’s team, confirmed this theatre group’s awesome artistry.

Pat Saward, Sally Nower, Oscar Lingley, Frankie Salmon, Joe Murphy, Brooke Sparks, Darcey Jeggo and Champers contributed much.

Brian Alderman’s lighting swansong with CEDS, was a fine twister.

Pat Rudkins