THE great thing about being a Munchkin, says 14-year-old actor Belinda Walton, is the roller-coaster of emotions it takes you on.

Belinda is one of 50 Sunshine Coast youngsters who will be part of The Wizard of Oz production at The Events Centre in Caloundra these Easter school holidays.

"When Dorothy comes, we're really excited and happy and when the Wicked Witch comes we're all terrified and scared,” the Sunshine Coast Grammar School student said.

"It's just a really fun role because of the emotions.”

Belinda said she'd been in a number of school productions but it was exciting to be part of a professional team in the Gateway Theatre Productions play.

"The amount of talent that is displayed in this cast is incredible, and that's what sets it aside from the other plays and musicals I've been a part of,” she said.

Running from April 8 to 11 this year, the production will bring a "new, bright and wonderful retelling of the 1939 classic film,” Gateway Theatre Productions executive producer Tracey Ferguson said.

There will be theatrical special effects, jaw-dropping sets and costumes, a 20-piece orchestra and a cast of 80. 　

The story is based on the popular L. Frank Baum fantasy tale, in which Dorothy and her dog Toto are caught in a tornado's path, taking them on a journey to the "Merry Old Land of Oz.”　

Dorothy meets some memorable friends and foe along the way, who help her return home, and who find the brain, heart and courage they've been searching for.　

Rehearsals started last year, and while it had been a lot of work Belinda recommended other Coast kids who were keen on acting to "go for it”.

"It's one of the most amazing industries to be a part of,” she said.

"You meet so many different people - it's incredible.”

She said playing different characters helped her grow as a person, too.

"When you're playing a role you really get to put yourself in their shoes, and by doing that you automatically put a part of yourself into that role,” she said.

"Sometimes you even put some of that character back into your life too, like if you really like something they do you can make it one of your hobbies.”

The Wizard of Oz will open at The Events Centre in Minchinton St, Caloundra, with four shows only. Tickets start from $49.90 are available at www.theeventscentre.com.au.