Acting skills on stage for The Wiz

Trevayze Wairepo as Tinman, Arapeta Paea as Lion and Teina Cassidy as Dorothy. Photo / Stephen Parker

If you want to catch a show with fantastic singing, dancing and music, catch The Wiz, on stage at the Civic Theatre until May 21.

Performed by students from Rotorua Boys' High School and Rotorua Girls' High School, the show's music has a mixture of rock, gospel and soul, and is based on the retelling of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

Photo / Stephen Parker

"It was chosen because students relate well to the music which showcases their amazing talents. It has some really funky songs as well as beautiful ballads. The dancing is awesome and we even have gymnasts involved," said musical director Cameron Hay.

The show is being produced by Rotorua Boys' High with up to 50 students from both schools in the cast, band and production crew.

"The Wiz is played by Te Hae Tamehana-Clayton who is an outstanding performer and has played lead roles in other school productions. Another star is head boy, Arapeta Paea, who is a natural performer and has been in every school production since he started in Year 9.

"An up-and-comer is Teina Cassidy who is Dorothy and she brings great energy as well as talent to the stage," said Mr Hay.

"It is so rewarding for the students and the teachers to see the kids excelling. You see them in a totally different light.

"It is definitely the highlight of my year, and is something for the whole family."

Factbox:

* What: The Wiz

* When:Tonight until May 21, 7.30pm

* Where: Civic Theatre, Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre

* Tickets: $27 from www.ticketmaster.co.nz