News Summary
The beloved musical The Wiz has returned to Boston for its first national live-stage tour in over 40 years. Running from August 12 to August 24, the production emphasizes self-belief, friendship, and identity through an updated narrative. Directed by Schele Williams, it features an all-Black cast and new book by Amber Ruffin, enhancing the original score with contemporary music. With captivating choreography and a vibrant visual experience, this revival aims to celebrate Black joy and resonate with audiences of all ages.
Boston Revives The Wiz Musical, Celebrates Self-Belief and Black Joy
BOSTON — The beloved musical The Wiz has returned to the stage in Boston for the first national live-stage tour in over 40 years, following a recent Broadway revival. This production runs from August 12 to August 24 at the Citizens Opera House, with ticket prices ranging from $41 to $267. The show is a modern reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s “The Wizard of Oz,” initially adapted into a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical in 1975, featuring an all-Black cast. It emphasizes the critical themes of self-belief, friendship, and identity through its updated narrative.
The production, directed by Schele Williams, introduces an updated book by Amber Ruffin, who has woven in topical commentary appealing to today’s youth. The original score by Charlie Smalls is enriched with additional music from renowned artists Luther Vandross and Timothy Graphenreed. Significant musical numbers like “Believe in Yourself,” “Home,” “Ease On Down the Road,” and the reintegrated “You Can’t Win” highlight the journey of self-discovery faced by the protagonist, Dorothy.
Dana Cimone takes on the role of Dorothy, who embarks on her adventure after being bullied in Kansas. A striking dance choreography portrays a tornado that transports her to the vibrant land of Oz, where she seeks wisdom from good witches and forms friendships with the Scarecrow, played by Elijah Ahmad Lewis; the Tinman, played by D. Jerome; and the Cowardly Lion, played by Cal Mitchell. The character of The Wiz, portrayed by Alan Mingo Jr., embodies a captivating mix of charm and intimidation, reflecting the childhood disillusionment many face.
Notably, Kyla Jade is cast as the wicked witch, crafting a dynamic portrayal that adds depth to the story. While some critics have pointed out minor technical issues during the performances, the live version of The Wiz is widely regarded as a superior experience compared to the 1978 film adaptation. The production’s choreography, led by JaQuel Knight — known for his work on Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies” — captivates audiences and contributes to the overall joyous atmosphere.
The vivid costumes, designed by Sharen Davis, along with Ryan J. O’Gara’s stunning lighting design, create an enchanting visual experience that elevates the performance. The engaging production successfully resonates with audience members, many of whom share personal connections to the timeless story across generations.
The revival of The Wiz notably focuses on celebrating Black joy, offering viewers an uplifting escape from societal challenges. Alan Mingo Jr. highlighted this aspect of the production, emphasizing how it serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. The revival aims to ensure that audiences leave not only entertained but also empowered and inspired by its messages of self-worth and beauty.
Overall, the Boston production of The Wiz breathes new life into a classic tale, embracing its rich history while infusing it with contemporary themes relevant to modern audiences. The heartfelt journey of Dorothy and her friends continues to resonate, making this revival a must-see for theater enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
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Additional Resources
- Cape Cod Times: The Wiz Review
- Boston Globe: The Wiz in Boston
- NBC Boston: The Wiz Eases On Down To Boston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: The Wiz
- Boston Irish: The Wiz at Opera House
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
