Good witches, bad witches and lions, oh my!

The Wareham Middle School is undertaking "The Wizard of Oz" for its spring production, and rehearsals are underway with all 91 cast members.

The number of roles is what makes the show so fun, said Anna Ambarik, who plays Aunt Em in the show. There are munchkins, trees, flowers and monkeys, meaning there's always something to look at onstage. There are also special effects, especially in the tornado scene.

"Every character adds so much value and comedic relief," said Jamie Wiksten, a Wareham Middle School Drama Club co-advisor. Kim Bergamini and Andrea Bridge are also co-advisors.

Memorizing the lines is tough, the actors agreed. Abby Wiksten, who plays the Wicked Witch of the West, said she has 43 lines to learn.

"You have to be passionate about it, and we're all really passionate about our lines," said Indiana Troupe, who plays the Wizard of Oz.

In addition to the acting, there will be lots of singing and dancing. Only five rehearsals in, the students are already starting to learn choreography and master their solo pieces.

"The music is what makes it really special," Wiksten said. They rehearse every Tuesday as a group, with additional smaller rehearsals throughout the week.

On Nov. 30, the students will be taking a trip to see "Elf Jr., The Musical," performed at the Burt Wood School of Performing Arts in Middleboro, sponsored by Cheri Lindsey, who is purchasing tickets for the students to experience live theater.

"The Wizard of Oz" takes place at Wareham Middle School on March 21 at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets go on sale Feb. 28.