Poppies sprout in Fallbrook

One doesn’t have to have a green thumb to see an instant poppy field if attending the Fallbrook Players Junior Conservatory’s (FPJC) production of “The Wizard of Oz” playing at the Mission Theater.

Fallbrook’s local VFW has been providing “Buddy Poppies” for theatergoers who in turn become an interactive part of the play. When the wicked witch casts her spell to create a poisonous poppy field, the audience holds their poppies in the air, creating a sea of red poppies to actually become part of the play.

“This has been really fun,” said Bonnie Johnson, chairperson of the Buddy Poppy program at the VFW. “It is important that people understand that all the money collected from the Buddy Poppies stays right here in Fallbrook to support our local veterans who need a hand. In addition, I am hoping that when I send my report in to the national VFW headquarters about this event that other VFWs can team up with theaters performing ‘The Wizard of Oz’ because I think this is a great idea.”

“We are hoping for a large turnout next Friday night as we honor veterans and active duty military personnel in celebration of Veteran’s Day,” said Connie Knox, president of FPJC. “These men and women have served our country well and we would like to give back to them. They and their families will receive a special $2 discount on their tickets for Friday’s performance. It should be a good night for the Buddy Poppy program as well.”

This is the final weekend for “The Wizard of Oz” here in Fallbrook. Friday and Saturday curtain time is 7:30 p.m., with a 2:00 p.m. matinee on Sunday. Tickets may be purchased at the Mission Theater Box Office or by calling (760) 731-2278.