It wasn’t the Ten Commandments, but the Wizzard of Oz performed by the members of the Patrician Youth Centre did involve a cast of 79 in total. It was a terrific show as usual and congratulations to all the performers and back room workers.
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Follow the Yellow Brick Road: the Tin Man, DScarecrow, Dorothy and The Lion head off to find the Wizard of Oz.[/caption]
In South Down we only get rain and wind, but in Kansas, USA, tornadoes rip through the countryside. When a tornado struck, Dorothy and her wee dog Toto are whisked away in their farmhouse to the magical world of Oz.
They follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City to meet the Wizard, and en route they meet a Scarecrow who needs a brain, a Tin Man without a heart and a cowardly Lion who is lacking in courage. This group are tasked with bringing the broom of the Wicked Witch of the West to the Wizzard before they can earn his help.
The main character Dorothy was played by Mairead O’Hare who sang her songs beautifully with many in the audience joining in.
The show was held in the Great Hall in the Downshire Estate in Downpatrick, and played to two full school matinees, a Friday evening audience and then ended with a Sunday afternoon finale.
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Check the Link to the Stage Photos of  Wizard of Oz
(photos by Jim Masson)
Yvonne McKnight, Senior Youth Leader, said: “We would like to thank the entire production team for their dedication and commitment to our young members. Â We offer a special thanks to those production team members who assisted in the choreography, music and vocals.
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Somewhere over the rainbow… Dorothy sings the signature tune for Wizard of Oz.[/caption]
“And again we would like to thank the Arts Council for its financial assistance towards the production and their ongoing support to the youth centre.
“But we have to say a massive thanks to the parents and families of our cast for their support throughout the rehearsals and performances. And of course, we are very grateful to our loyal audiences who come along and enjoy our shows.”
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So, do you want to be on stage? You could be part of the next production at the Patrician Youth centre at the end of June. This performance will be called  “A Celebration of Talent” with singing, dancing and drama performances.
For more information contact the PYC on 028 44 615488.
No experience is necessary… the PYC will draw out your talents!
This performance is for young people from 8+.
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It has been a busy time for the Patrician Youth centre. Commenting on the football successes of Patrician Youth Club, SDLP Westminster Candidate for South Down, Margaret Ritchie who attended the performance of Wizard of Oz said: “Congratulations are due to all the boys at Patrician Youth Club in Downpatrick Under 15’s who beat Newcastle yesterday to win the Cup in horrendous weather conditions.
“Yet again, we see the example of the training, poise, and expertise given to young people in Patrician Youth Centre who are true ambassadors for Downpatrick. As a result of that training, the young people continue to display determination and dedication both on and off the pitch which is highly commendable.
“Only recently, we witnessed their wonderful acting and singing talents in The Wizard of Oz production.
“Commendations must also go to their management and coaches too.”
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