Just A Quickie with... Gareth Cheeseman, The Scarecrow in New Earswick Musical Society's The Wizard Of Oz.

Will this be your first appearance on stage?

"I've been on stage once before but that was in a concert."

Are you originally from York?

"No. I come from Rugby. I came to York because of the university and I stayed because I liked it here, which is the best of reasons. Also, there are plenty of activities to become involved in."

For instance?

"Well, I'm a musician. I've played viola in various orchestras."

So, your musical background will be useful in your first venture with New Earswick Musical Society?

"Yes, and I'm enjoying it. It's a new experience for me. Teamwork is essential, just as it is in orchestral playing, where you have to be aware of what's happening around you to produce an ensemble effect."

How do you feel about appearing on stage with children? There are 21 Munchkins; aren't you afraid of falling over them?

"Ha! Most of my role involves falling over! After all, I'm only a scarecrow, remember, and you don't expect a scarecrow to be very steady on his feet. I've just got to make sure none of them is in the vicinity when I topple over."

You're quite tall. Do you think they might be a little in awe of you?

"Never. It's the other way round. I'm amazed how confident they all seem to be. They're so lively and so interested; and they're not slow to tell me if I've made even the slightest mistake."

So you don't agree with that old adage: "never act with children".

"What? And miss out on all the fun. Never!"

The Wizard Of Oz, New Earswick Musical Society, November 9 to 13, 7.30pm. Friday and Saturday performances are virtually sold out. Box office: 01904 623568.

Blizzard of Oz

NEW Earswick Musical Society is not alone in staging The Wizard Of Oz this month. Easingwold Players present the musical at the Galtres Centre, Easingwold, from November 16 to 20.

Stage scenery has been made and painted for this production, and after the show, the Players are offering the items to anyone - preferably a drama group from somewhere not over the rainbow - wishing to bid for the "very realistic pieces". The price is "make us an offer", and everything will be available for collection from November 21.

The only stipulation is that whoever buys them has to take the job lot; no selling of certain items will be available. For sale are a cart; balloon and basket; trees and supports; trees to hang on stage flats; a fence; an arched window; Dorothy's house/Wizard's cubicle; and a door with a hatch window. A rock, a mirror and a two-foot high egg timer, with sand, complete the sale list.

Anyone interested in seeing the items before the show should contact treasurer Ian Hall on 01347 822180.

Updated: 16:10 Thursday, November 04, 2004