The groundbreaking Broadway sensation, The Wiz, made its triumphant return to the stage with a pre-Broadway premiere at Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre on Nov. 29. The production was is nothing short of a visual marvel that unapologetically celebrates Black culture.
The star-studded cast brought their A-game to the stage, breathing new life into beloved characters. Alan Mingo’s portrayal of The Wiz, Deborah Cox’s enchanting Glinda, Melody Betts’s dual roles as Aunt Em and Evilene, Phillip Johnson Richardson’s endearing Tinman, Avery Wilson’s charismatic Scarecrow, and Nichelle Lewis’s captivating Dorothy form a powerhouse ensemble that leaves the audience spellbound.
What struck me most was how, even 50 years after its original debut, The Wiz managed to captivate hearts and minds with its timeless brilliance. Director Schele Williams and choreographer JaQuel Knight skillfully transported us to a modern-day Oz, infusing it with a New Orleans twist and contemporary political undertones. Hannah Beachler’s set design is jaw-dropping and seamlessly blends the nostalgia of the ’70s with a fresh perspective. The iconic Afro Sheen-inspired throne of The Wiz and the symbolic closed fist building in the Emerald City skyline send powerful messages of Black empowerment that resonate throughout the production.
Nichelle Lewis’s portrayal of Dorothy was a breathtaking showcase of talent, and her voice control leaves an indelible mark. Melody Betts, as Evilene, rocked the house with her rendition of “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News,” eliciting thunderous applause from the audience. Phillip Johnson Richardson’s “What Would I Do If I Could Feel” is also a poignant and moving display of emotion.
While some traditional elements like Toto and the flying monkeys were absent, it didn’t detract from the overall experience. The central message remained crystal clear – that everything we seek is already within us and can be found in the comforts of home.
The Wiz is an absolute must-see production that redefines the boundaries of theater. It continues to shine as a timeless masterpiece that bridges generations and cultures. If you’re in Chicago, I highly recommend catching this extraordinary production before it concludes its run on Dec. 10, 2023, at The Cadillac Palace Theatre. This is a journey to Oz that you won’t want to miss out on.
