The Wiz

The Wiz is here, and it's time to "Ease On Down The Road" to Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre. The original Baltimore cast of the play included Stephanie Mills as Dorothy, Stu Gilliam as the Scarecrow, Tiger Haynes as the Tin Man, and Ted Ross as the Cowardly Lion. However, only Ted Ross was kept in the movie adaptation produced by Universal Pictures and Motown Productions in 1977, which starred Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, and Nipsey Russell. Interestingly, Jimmy JJ Walker, from the hit sitcom Good Times, was initially offered the movie role of the Scarecrow. Director Schele Williams of the North American Touring cast maintains the plot and comedic humor within the production, mixing electrifying modern jazz, hip-hop, soul, and ballet. However, Dorothy begins the show by singing at the reprise of "Soon As I Get Home," which slightly differs from the original entry. There is a passionate duo with Dorothy and Aunt Em singing "The Feeling We Once Had," which helps the protagonist grapple with the twin challenges of being accepted at her school and losing her parents. As the tornado hits, causing Dorothy's house to land and killing Evermean, the Wicked Witch of the East who rules Munchkinland, we get a glimpse of the alluring, vivid colors and vibrant atmosphere that showcase throughout the production of The Wiz. 

The breathtaking stage design, stunning choreography, and impressive scenic, costume, and lighting design that is visually stunning is fantastic. Sharen Davis's vibrant costumes were spectacular, excluding part of the lion attire that looked like a giant diaper. The hair, wig, and make-up designs by Charles G. Lapointe and Kirk Cambridge Del-Pesche, respectively, were immaculate. The journey through Oz is vividly entertaining, and the performers are incredibly talented, with outstanding vocal performances. The chemistry between the actors is impressive. Avery Wilson, Phillip Johnson Richardson, and Kyle Ramar Freeman were excellent as the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion. As well as Allyson Kaye Daniel as Addaperle and Melody A. Betts as Evillene were hilarious and provided impeccable performances. At the same time, Nichelle Lewis seemed awkward as Dorothy, and unfortunately, the poor sound system limits her killer vocals. There are some areas where the production, such as the scene where Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tinman, and the Lion meet the Poppies, and the second act's opening number dance was spectacular. Still, it felt too long and dragged on, which could use some work to sustain energy and flow. And the dog is missing. What happened to Toto? Was Toto pushed out because they didn't have a well-trained dog or a good dog trainer? Although the plot has several impressive moments, the first act could have a more entertaining vibrancy, as seen in the second act. It needs more emotional depth and connection between the central cast, making it easier to engage with the story with more plot and a little less Dorothy. One of the major issues with this production was the location - the acoustics and sound system at the Cadillac Palace Theatre were in dire need of an overhaul. In my previous reviews, I've mentioned how the outdated system at Broadway In Chicago theatre takes away from the performances by great artists and vocalists. The erratic vocals can make it difficult to enjoy some of the most noteworthy songs, and this can cause the audience to lose interest. There were moments where the singers' and actors' microphones were distorted, lines got lost, and the orchestra seemed a step ahead when Lewis sang the iconic song "Home." And despite Deborah Cox's commanding voice, the acoustics during her performance of "Believe In Yourself" as Glinda in the musical "The Wiz" diminished the power of her singing.

Click out the video with Tamron Hall with the cast of The Wiz.

The second act was more entertaining, witty, and enthralling, with the scene where Evillene incinerates her Winkies workers for bringing her bad news. Even the gatekeepers, Kolby Kindle and Cristina Rae, were hilarious. But Alan Mingo Jr., as The Wiz, his performance was priceless and almost stole the show.  None of the Oz stories, the Wizard of Oz produced in 1939, the 1974 Baltimore musical, nor the 1978 film The Wiz initially received good reviews from critics, ridiculing Ross for being too old for the movie role of Dorothy, and the same was said about Judy Garland. Also, none of the productions were financially successful box office hits, but their popularity grew over time. Ross is the only star still alive from the movie, and Stephanie Mills and Tiger Haynes from the musical production. The Wiz was created to honor and showcase the talent of Black artists. Its message serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of Black people in the face of adversity. It critiques the anti-Blackness and racism that still exist in America today.

It is interesting to note that there was a moment of silence between Lewis's final performance and the curtain call, during which the audience appeared unsure whether the show had ended. Overall, The Wiz is still a dazzling display of exceptional acting, singing, and dancing that is an engaging and fun experience with a positive storyline narrative of believing in yourself that you will genuinely enjoy.   

3 STARS ***

Cadillac Palace

The Wiz

Adapted from "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum

Book by William F. Brown

Music & Lyrics by Charlie Smalls

Choreographed by Jaquel Knight

Directed by Schele Williams

Playing Now until December 10, 2023

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