The Wiz is a musical re-imagining of L. Frank Baum’s classic 1900 children’s novel ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.’ Originally premiering on Broadway in 1975, this groundbreaking production is known for its infusion of African-American culture, contemporary music styles, and vibrant choreography, making it a beloved adaptation that resonates with audiences of all ages. The story highlights themes of friendship, resilience, and the importance of believing in oneself. If you’re considering buying last-minute The Wiz tickets in NYC, check out this complete guide to the musical beforehand.
Story Overview
The story of The Wiz show in New York begins with Dorothy, a young African-American girl living in Kansas. During a fierce tornado, she is swept away to the magical land of Oz. In this new and vibrant urban fantasy world, Dorothy is eager to find her way back home.
Upon her arrival in Oz, Dorothy accidentally kills the Wicked Witch of the East by landing her house on the witch. She is greeted by the Good Witch of the North, Addaperle, who gives Dorothy the deceased witch’s powerful silver shoes. Addaperle advises Dorothy to seek help from the Wiz in the Emerald City, who has the power to send her home.
As Dorothy sets out on her journey, she meets three companions who join her quest. The first is the Scarecrow, who believes he needs a brain. Next, they meet the Tin Man, who desires a heart. Finally, they come across the Cowardly Lion, who is in search of courage. Together, they form a close-knit group, each hoping the Wiz can grant their wishes.
Their journey to the Emerald City is filled with various challenges and magical encounters. They pass dangerous places and confront the Wicked Witch of the West, Evillene, who seeks to capture Dorothy and obtain some powerful silver shoes.
Upon reaching the Emerald City, the group meets the Wiz, who appears as a mysterious figure. The Wiz agrees to grant their wishes on the condition that they defeat Evillene. The group sets out once more, and through their combined efforts, they manage to overcome the Wicked Witch of the West.
With Evillene defeated, they return to the Wiz, only to discover that he is an ordinary man with no magical powers. Despite this revelation, the companions realize that they have already found what they were searching for — the Scarecrow has shown intelligence, the Tin Man has demonstrated deep emotion, and the Lion has acted with great bravery.
Finally, Glinda, the Good Witch of the South, appears and teaches Dorothy how to use the power of the silver shoes to return home. With a few clicks of her heels, Dorothy bids farewell to her friends and finds herself back in Kansas, bringing her extraordinary adventure in Oz to an end.
Cast Information
Schele Williams directs this production of The Wiz in Broadway theater in NYC and marks the first Broadway revival of The Wiz since its original run in 1975. The cast includes talented actors, as discussed below.
- Nichelle Lewisas Dorothy
- Wayne Bradyas The Wiz
- Deborah Coxas Glinda
- Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene
- Kyle Ramar Freemanas Lion
- Phillip Johnson Richardsonas Tinman
- Avery Wilsonas Scarecrow
Supporting Cast
- Lauryn Adams
- Shayla Caldwell
- Maya Bowles
- Collin Heyward
- Amber Jackson
- Olivia Jackson
- Christina Jones
- Polanco Jones
- Kolby Kindle
- Mariah Lyttle
- Kareem Marsh
- Anthony Murphy
- Cristina Rae
- Matthew Sims Jr
- Avilon Trust Tate
- Keenan D. Washington
- Timothy Wilson
- Jay Copeland
- Allyson Kaye Daniel
- Judith Franklin
- Michael Samarie George
Venue Details
The Marquis Theatre, located at 210 West 46th Street, New York, NY, is a modern Broadway venue known for its spacious and comfortable seating, excellent acoustics, and state-of-the-art stage facilities. Situated in Times Square, it offers audiences an immersive theatrical experience, making it an ideal location for the vibrant production of The Wiz in NYC theater.
Reviews
The current production of The Wiz show in New York at the Marquis Theatre has received a warm reception from critics, praised for its vibrant re-imagining of the classic tale. Special praise was given to Nichelle Lewis for her portrayal of Dorothy, which was described as heartfelt and captivating.
Critics appreciated the modern touches added to the set and costume designs. They agreed that costume designer Sharen Davis creates visually striking outfits that combine contemporary fashion with mystical touches, enhancing each character’s unique personality. Scenic designer, Hannah Beachler, was also praised for crafting an elaborate and colorful set that incorporates bold colors and graffiti art, enhancing the energetic atmosphere of Oz.
Audience reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the production for its emotional depth and powerful message of self-discovery and empowerment. The musical score, featuring classic songs like “Ease on Down the Road” and “Home,” was noted for its soulful and uplifting performance.
Music
The Wiz show today in NYC has a musical score that blends various genres such as gospel, soul, and R&B. Composed by Charlie Smalls with contributions from Luther Vandross and others, the music of The Wiz brings the story of Dorothy and her adventures in Oz to life. Here is a list of the songs in the musical.
- “The Feeling We Once Had”— Aunt Em reflects on the past and expresses her concerns for Dorothy.
- “Tornado”— The instrumental piece that accompanies the whirlwind that takes Dorothy to Oz.
- “He’s the Wizard”— Addaperle and the Munchkins praise the Wizard and his powers.
- “Soon As I Get Home”— Dorothy sings about her desire to return home and her hopes for finding a way back.
- “I Was Born on the Day Before Yesterday”— The Scarecrow describes his short life and his longing for a brain.
- “Ease on Down the Road”— Dorothy and her friends encourage each other to stay positive and keep moving forward.
- “Slide Some Oil to Me”— The Tinman requests oil to ease his rusty joints.
- “I’m a Mean Ole Lion”— The Lion introduces himself with bravado despite his lack of courage.
- “Be a Lion”— Dorothy comforts the Lion and assures him of his inner bravery.
- “So You Wanted to See the Wizard”— The Wiz makes a grand entrance, displaying his supposed power.
- “What Would I Do If I Could Feel”— The Tinman wonders about the emotions he could experience if he had a heart.
- “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News”— Evillene commands her subjects to keep negativity away from her.
- “Everybody Rejoice (Brand New Day)”— The characters celebrate their victory over Evillene and their newfound freedom.
- “Y’all Got It!”— The Wiz praises Dorothy and her friends for their achievements.
- “If You Believe”— Glinda encourages Dorothy to believe in herself to find her way home.
- “Home”— Dorothy sings about her realization that there is no place like home and her desire to return to Kansas.
Awards
The Wiz has garnered significant acclaim and numerous awards since its original Broadway debut in 1975. Here is a list of notable awards won by the production.
Tony Awards
- Best Musical
- Best Original Score (Charlie Smalls)
- Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical (Dee Dee Bridgewater)
- Best Direction of a Musical (Geoffrey Holder)
- Best Choreography (George Faison)
- Best Costume Design (Geoffrey Holder)
Drama Desk Awards
- Outstanding Musical
- Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical (Dee Dee Bridgewater)
- Outstanding Choreography (George Faison)
- Outstanding Costume Design (Geoffrey Holder)
Grammy Awards
- Best Cast Show Album (Original Cast Recording)
Theatre World Awards
- Most Promising Performer (Stephanie Mills as Dorothy)
Run Length and Schedule
The current production of The Wiz show in New York at the Marquis Theatre runs for approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes, including one intermission. Performances are typically scheduled as follows.
Weekly Schedule
- Tuesday: Evening show at 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: Matinee show at 2:00 PM, Evening show at 8:00 PM
- Thursday: Evening show at 8:00 PM
- Friday:Evening show at 8:00 PM
- Saturday: Matinee show at 2:00 PM, Evening show at 8:00 PM
- Sunday: Matinee show at 3:00 PM
Food and Beverage Options
The theater offers three bars on the orchestra level and one on the mezzanine level, where patrons can purchase a selection of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, as well as snacks. Bottled water and drinks with secure lids are allowed in the auditorium.
