The national tour of Sing-a-Long Wizard of Oz, which combines audience participation and the classic 1939 musical film, will make its world premiere Jan. 4, 2003, at Chicago's Ford Center for the Performing Arts. Produced by the Nederlander Organization and Clear Channel Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Theatrical, the official opening night is scheduled for Jan. 11. The film — starring a young Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale— will be shown in its original large-screen format and has been digitally restored and remastered. Director-choreographer Marc Robin and writers Craig Cackowski and T.J. Shanoff created the live elements of the production, which features a master of ceremonies, a costume parade, a contest and a "Perform-a-Long Fun Pack" that includes bubbles, noise maker, magic wand and kazoo.

After Chicago, the production will launch a national and international tour in fall 2003, including stops in Washington, D.C.; Los Angeles, New York, Boston, Denver and London.

Sing-a-Long Wizard of Oz will play Chicago's Oriental Theatre-Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 24 W. Randolph. Performance schedule is Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Sundays at 2 PM; the interactive show runs through March 2003. Tickets are priced between $15 and $35 and are available by calling Chicago Ticketline at (312) 902-1400. For more information, go to www.singalongoz.com.