It’s not every day that Glenda the Good Witch makes an appearance at a business networking event, but that’s exactly what happened recently.
Glenda, a co-star of The Wiz — Chicago Style, is portrayed by Aziza Lisa, a professional performer who has opened for the likes of Erykah Badu, Musiq Soulchild, Nancy Wilson and Eric Benet.
“I sing, I act, I dance, and I write songs,” Lisa tells rolling out. “V-103 played one of my songs for a while and I opened some big concerts, so I’ve been on the grind.”
Lisa says that performing is in her blood. “I’ve been doing this since high school. I come from parents who are singers, vocalists and writers, and I have that background, that has been in the family for a while.”
Lisa has also worked with the Mahdi Theatre Company’s production of Chicago Renaissance, in which she portrayed Lena Horne.
The Mahdi Theatre Company, a collective arts organization, has adapted Quincy Jones’ musical production of The Wiz, adding a Chicago style twist.
“There are quite a few elements … that make this play very unique and definitely connect us with Chicago,” Lisa reveals.
“This Mahdi production has a huge cast, wonderful costumes, and she brings in a Chicago element, with Chicago steppers, the Jesse White tumbling team, and the Stick and Move International Dance Troupe,” Lisa says. “We’ve been rehearsing for four months.”
The Wiz – Chicago Style will also feature Dorian Klyes (Dorothy), Pearl Ramsey (Scarecrow), Jerry Thurman (Cowardly Lion), and Demond Styles (Tinman).
The production runs Aug. 19 – Aug. 20 at the Harold Washington Cultural Center, 4701 S. King Drive. Admission is $20.
Video: Glenda the Good Witch Sings!
