Ludwig Theatre Arts Celebrates ‘Best Youth Musical’ Win for The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition

Ludwig Theatre Arts (LTA) is proud to announce that its recent co-production of The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition, staged with The Courtyard, has been awarded Best Youth Musical 2025 for the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) District 1.

The production ran at The Courtyard Hereford from late July into August, delighting audiences across six performances. The show showcased the exceptional talent and dedication of LTA’s youth performers, creative team and wider community.

The production was reviewed by NODA District 1 Representative Louise Hickey, who praised the show’s creativity and execution, describing it as “a fabulous show” and commending the “seamless” set changes and “perfect” design that “set the scene perfectly.”

Louise also highlighted the cast’s energy and commitment, noting “the vitality of the cast was apparent from the opening number,” while lead performer Katie-Ella as Dorothy “sang ‘Over the Rainbow’ beautifully” and delivered a “convincing, confident and talented” performance.

Standout performances were recognised throughout the report, including praise for the “remarkable” portrayal of the Wicked Witch, described as “a master stroke,” and the central trio who were “delightful individually but the perfect balance as the Lion, Tinman & Scarecrow.”

The production’s ensemble numbers and choreography were also celebrated, with the Jitterbug described as “outstanding” and performed with full commitment by the entire cast.

Artistic Director, Jack Ludwig said:

“We are very proud to have won Best Youth Musical for our district for the third consecutive year. The team works tirelessly to provide countless musical theatre opportunities and it goes without saying that we are so proud of our Oz cast. We are also overjoyed to share that our Scarecrow, Jack Meek, has secured a place to study at Emil Dale Academy drama school this September. From the yellow brick road to the bright lights of drama school, dreams really do come true!

None of this would be possible without the continued support of the fantastic team at The Courtyard and behind the scenes at LTA.”

This latest accolade marks a hat-trick of success for Ludwig Theatre Arts, reinforcing its reputation for delivering high-quality youth musical theatre and nurturing the next generation of performers. Their next production, Frozen The West End Musical, will take place at The Courtyard this May half term, one not to be missed!