Unless you've been living in a cave for the last 60 years, there's a good chance you're familiar with the 1939 Oscar-nominated film, "The Wizard of Oz." Most of us, however, have not had the opportunity to see the beloved film in all its original big-screen splendor - until now, that is.

On Saturday, October 25, The Little Theatre, along with Time Warner Cable and Turner Classic Movies, is offering Rochester audiences two opportunities to get swept over the rainbow into the merry ol' Land of Oz. Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, Glinda, The Wicked Witch and all of those obnoxious flying monkeys on their adventures as "The Wizard of Oz" returns to the big screen for one day only.

The opportunity for a child to experience the magic "Oz" on the big screen cannot be measured, and for this reason a special Halloween edition of The Little's popular Preferred Care Little Buddies Series kicks off the festivities at 10 a.m. Your little munchkins are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to the special program. Rumor has it - although no tornadoes are forecast - that Dorothy herself is scheduled to land in Rochester for a musical appearance. Prior to the film, Rochester's own "Wizard of Oz" expert, Dresden Engle of the George Eastman House, will share behind-the-scenes secrets about the film.

For a horse of a different color, The Little is also holding a special screening of the film at 11 p.m. for adult fans of the movie. Guests can make an evening of it with a special party in The Little Café. Late Night at The Little: Oz and Wine Tasting Event will be held at 9:30 p.m., complete with wine tasting, appetizers, and live music. Of course, being close to Halloween, guests are encouraged to come dressed at their favorite Oz character.

Surprisingly, "The Wizard of Oz," based on a book by L. Frank Baum, was not considered a commercial success at the time of its release, mainly due to its large budget. Throughout the years, however, the story of Dorothy Gale has been embraced as a universal fairy tale. It has left an indelible mark on pop culture, spawned dozens of catch phrases, inspired a new generation of storyteller such as Gregory Maguire (whose book "Wicked" and the musical of the same name are media juggernauts in their own right), and has provided musical fodder for countless adaptations of its songs. Need proof? Google the phrase "Israel Kamakawiwo'ole rainbow" and be amazed.

Tickets to the Little Buddies show are $5. Tickets to Late Night at The Little: Oz and Wine Tasting Event are $20 (includes wine, appetizers and a movie ticket), or $8 for the movie alone. Tickets are available at The Little Theatre Box Office at 240 East Avenue. For more information, visit thelittle.org, or call 258-0400.