Casting opportunities abound with the two stories, although interwoven, able to be rehearsed separately. There’s parts galore for all ages and abilities, with both challenging lead roles (great female characters!) and substantial chorus work. Willow Blues is a dream show for designers and costuming with the recreation of the famous ‘Willow Pattern’ plate as a principal set. Throw in a Chinese dragon dance, shadow puppets (a show-within-a-show-within-a-show!), a fiery kiln, a psychic tea-lady and a cast of thousands (almost) and this is the musical to capture your students’ hearts and imaginations.