A WICKED witch driving a yellow bus and a street busker who becomes a scarecrow are just some of the colourful characters in a new and highly imaginative version of the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

The production, a modern version of the story with a local twist, will be staged at the Barnfield Theatre next week. It will be performed by St David's Theatre Group, a partnership between the Exeter Shilhay Community and Wolf and Water Arts Company.

In their version, Dorothy is a woman living in St David's, Exeter, who runs away when the pressures of modern life get too much for her.

She meets a wicked witch driving a yellow bus, who persuades her to escape to Emerald City, where the mysterious people of Oz live a carefree life with no risks to take or decisions to make.

When strangely familiar characters join her on her journey, Dorothy is forced to confront her fears and take steps across unknown territory.

Together, Dorothy and her new friends hunt for the Wizard of Oz — but when they find him, he turns out to be not quite what they were hoping for.

With a new script and new songs devised by the cast, the production is based on the original children's story by L Frank Baum. The cast, all people from St David's aged 18 to 60-plus, auditioned after flyers were sent around the area. Local people are also involved as musicians, costume-makers and prop-makers.

As a backdrop to the show, the theatre group is using a projection screen with local film and animation by Tony and Jules Walker.

Laura Newton from Wolf and Water, who is directing the show, said: "People came forward with their talents and interests and worked with their skills. We chose to do the Wizard of Oz because it's a well-known and well-loved story.

"Most people from the local community who are involved have some knowledge of the story, therefore it is a bit more accessible. It is a brilliant story to adapt with a local twist."

Laura believes the production has a wide appeal. "There is a lot for adults to laugh at and be interested in," she said.

"There is a lot of colour and lots of fantastic characters that children will recognise and enjoy. It will appeal to anyone who loves the story, or to people who have never heard of the story, but are interested in supporting a local community production."

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz will be staged at the Barnfield Theatre from Wednesday, June 10, to Friday, June 12. Performances start at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £7 or £4 for concessions. For details, call 01392 270891.