Photo Coverage: THE WIZARD OF OZ 70th. Ann. Emerald Gala at Tavern on the Green

The festivities commenced on Thursday, September 24, with the Emerald Gala, a glorious event at Manhattan's historic Tavern on the Green, hosted by its owner and CEO Jennifer Oz LeRoy, granddaughter of The Wizard of Oz producer Mervyn LeRoy. The entire restaurant and surrounding grounds transformed for a night into the Emerald City, replete with a winding Yellow Brick Road.

The Emerald Gala featured a musical performance by Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter and actress Ashanti, who recently made her theatrical debut as Dorothy in the City Center Encores! production of The Wiz. In addition, Lorna Luft, the daughter of Judy Garland, honored her mother's legacy with a special musical tribute.

Also contributing to the grand affair was the rare appearance by five of the original actors who played the "Munchkins" characters in 1939's The Wizard of Oz, along with members of the cast of The Wizard of Oz National Tour performing acts from the traveling show.

The Emerald Gala heralded Warner Home Video's September 29 release of The Wizard of Oz 70th Anniversary Ultimate Collector's Editions. Marking an historic benchmark in the format, Warner Home Video continues to maximize what Blu-ray can do for picture and sound. With six times higher resolution than standard DVD along with unparalleled sonic excellence, the film will be at its absolute pristine best, packed with treasured collectibles and brand-new bonus content.

"This anniversary year has been a wonderful celebration befitting an American classic like The Wizard of Oz," said Brad Globe, President, Warner Bros. Consumer Products. "Warner Bros. Consumer Products is thrilled to have toured The Ruby Slipper Collection around the country, culminating with what will be a truly memorable charity auction event."