From the moment Dorothy and Toto skipped onto the stage in the DeSales University Act 3 production of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," the children in the audience were captivated. With eyes aglow at the colorful costumes and enchanting sets, in just minutes children and parents alike were drawn out of their real lives and into the fantasy of Munchkin land.

The Act 3 production of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" continues through May 1, Schubert Theatre, Labuda Center for the Performing Arts, 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley.

Megan Shea, fresh off of her performance as Anne Frank in "The Diary of Anne Frank" brings innocence, charm and believability to her role as Dorothy.

The real standout, however, is Audra Frybgerger as the Wicked Witch of the West. Her wild cackle and devilishly dramatic flair steals the show. Every time Fryberger hits the stage a rush of excited giggles and chatter flows through the children sitting in the audience.

Scarecrow, Tin Woodsman and Cowardly Lion are played with humor by Hal Miers, Brett Lawler and Matt Kleckner, respectively. Occasionally, each will interact with the children in the audience, which provides youngsters with some extra fun.

The availability of seating for children at the edge of the stage is one of the things that makes Act 3 productions so popular with audiences. As Dorothy, Toto, the winged monkeys and the Munchkins float back, forth, behind and through The Yellow Brick Road, the children watching are right there with them -- a living, breathing part of the action.

Act 3 manages to make scene changes flow seamlessly, while spectacular special effects delight the eye at every turn. A simple tall swirl of fabric matched with flashing lights and spooky sound effects becomes a magically believable tornado. It's so believable, in fact, that some of the children in the audience run for their mothers. You needn't worry, however, because quickly the warm charms of the Land of Oz are revealed.

Peter Danelski is the show's director. Justin Haugh is Act 3 scenic designer, under the technical direction of Adam Curry. Jamie Lynn Metzger is costume designer. Allison Foster is lighting designer. Sound designer Kevin Riddagh also composed the show's score.

At just $10 a ticket, shows sell out quickly. While top-notch theater at low prices is difficult to achieve, Act 3 succeeds. "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" is a true delight. It is easy to see why DeSales University productions are considered by many to be the gold standard for live theater in the Lehigh Valley.