``The Wizard of Oz'' Dances Back to the Madrid Theatre; Family Classic Back By Popular Demand.

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- The Los Angeles Youth Ballet Theatre (LAYBT) production of "The Wizard of Oz" returns to the Madrid Theatre next week. The group, affiliated with Los Angeles Ballet Academy (LABA), which won the 2005 Youth America Grand Prix for Outstanding School, among other awards, brings its ballet of L. Frank Baum's classic story back for a final encore. There will be special performances for school groups on Thursday, November 3rd and Friday, November 4th. Public performances are Friday and Saturday night (November 5th) at 7:00 p.m., with a matinee Saturday afternoon at 2:00 p.m.

The Munchkins, Emerald City and even the Flying Monkeys all make appearances, as do Dorothy, Toto and her friends, and, of course, the Wicked Witch of the West. Students from LABA perform most of the roles, including younger members of the studio. Leading parts are played by advanced students who have been invited to dance or train with some of the leading companies in the world, from the Kirov to the American Ballet Theatre.

"This is a show for the whole family," said Denise Leader Stoeber, General Manager for the Madrid Theatre. "We invited LAYBT to bring the show back after it sold out its run last fall. It's a wonderful introduction to theater and dance for children, with a level of polish and skill that is satisfying for anyone who enjoys ballet."

For more information about the performances, or to buy tickets, contact the Madrid Theatre at 818-347-9938 / www.madridtheatre.org or LABA at 818-342-0211.

Los Angeles Ballet Academy/Los Angeles Youth Ballet Theatre:

Los Angeles Ballet Academy (LABA) offers its students a strong foundation including classical ballet, which meets Royal Academy of Dance requirements, as well as a diverse array of courses including jazz, tap, hip-hop, voice and Pilates. LABA students have received scholarships from prestigious programs such as the Royal Ballet School and the American Ballet Theatre and performed with major companies from around the world, including ABT, the San Francisco Ballet and the Kirov. LABA provides a nurturing environment appropriate for children of all skill levels, helping them build their strength, flexibility and creativity, fostering a love of movement and a sense of self-confidence.

The Los Angeles Youth Ballet Theatre is a pre-professional student ensemble, one of several performing groups affiliated with the school. Others include Theatrics Dance company, focused on jazz, tap and other contemporary dance, the Junior Company, and Team Theatrics for dancers age 8 and up. For more on Los Angeles Ballet Academy or the Youth Ballet Theatre, please call 818-342-0211, or visit www.laballet.com.