Spotlight Players start rehearsals for Wizard of Oz

"There's no place like home... and no place better to see an outstanding stage production of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz than right here at home in Jasper," according to director Bonnie Walker of Jasper's First United Methodist Church.

The Spotlight Players will present their version of the classic Frank Baum tale at the Wesley Center March 6, 8 and 9; tickets are go on sale Jan. 28 for $10. The Spotlight Players alternate musical productions with dinner theater each year.

"It's a magical story, and the play promises to be magical as well," Walker said.

Jessica Alvis stars as Dorothy, Chris Coleman as Scarecrow, Dana Walker as Tin Man, Billy Buckmaster as Cowardly Lion and Brenda Laird as the Wizard of Oz himself.

Dana Riggins is the Wicked Witch, Marci Ratcliff is Glenda the Good Witch, Donna Ivy and Danny Newsom are Auntie Em and Uncle Henry. Jacy Manning is The Jitterbug; Debbie Coleman is Miss Gulch, and Munchkins are Maggie Seale, Anna Seale and Madeline Jones, and a gaggle of Munchkin-sized elementary students.

Martin Jones, Dana Riggins and Bonnie Walker are co-directors.