Previews of Andrew Lloyd Webber's latest musical, The Wizard of Oz, have begun at the London Palladium. Nearly a year after Sir Andrew launched a TV talent show (BBC's Over the Rainbow) to find a Dorothy to star in the production, 18 year old Danielle Hope has finally put on the famous ruby slippers and stepped out in front of the public to make her West End debut.

Warm Welcome for West End Stars

The response from those who have seen the show is extremely positive, with strong praise for the casting of Michael Crawford as 'The Wizard' and Hannah Waddingham as 'The Wicked Witch of the West'.

Waddingham, in particular, is said to keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Her wicked cackling and daredevil aerial flying standing out in the early previews. Danielle Hope's performance is already being described as accomplished - her rendition of Over the Rainbow earning rapturous applause at every show.

Spectacular Effects in the Land of Oz

The technical aspects of the musical are certainly felt to capture the look and feel of the famous 1939 movie. A revolving stage recreates the Yellow Brick Road that takes Dorothy on a roundabout journey to the Emerald City, picking up the Scarecrow, Tin Man and cowardly Lion en-route. A dramatic projection is also used to recreate the terrible twister that sweeps Dorothy's Kansas farmhouse away.

With advance ticket sales of more than £8.5 million, The Wizard of Oz is certainly sweeping fans up with the magic before the official opening night of 01 March 2011.

The Wizard of Oz Theatre Breaks