The Wiz Returns with Soul and Spectacle
For many, the story of Dorothy Gale and her journey through the Land of Oz is etched into the fabric of childhood memories. We’ve skipped with her down the Yellow Brick Road, giggled at the Scarecrow’s wit, been touched by the Tin Man’s longing heart, and rallied behind the Cowardly Lion. But what if that familiar path took a vibrant detour, drenched in rhythm, soul, and pure, unadulterated funk? That’s the magic of The Wiz, the beloved Broadway gem which took L. Frank Baum’s classic tale and infused it with an electrifying energy that has captivated hearts for generations.
The Springer Opera House invites us to once again “Ease On Down the Road” with Dorothy and her iconic companions this September, promising a production that will stir the soul and dazzle the senses. From September 19th to 28th, audiences of all ages can experience a fresh, soulful, and utterly unforgettable reimagining of Oz.
When The Wiz first premiered on Broadway in 1975, it was a groundbreaking cultural phenomenon, daring to present Baum’s fantastical world through a distinctly African-American lens. William F. Brown’s clever book and Charlie Smalls’ phenomenal music and lyrics created something entirely new—a show bursting with rock, gospel, and soul music that spoke to a diverse audience and quickly earned seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It introduced us to iconic songs which became instant classics, like “Ease On Down the Road,” “Brand New Day,” and “Home,” each track pulsing with an infectious rhythm and resonant message.
Many will remember the dazzling 1978 film adaptation starring Diana Ross as Dorothy, Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow, and Lena Horne as Glinda, which further cemented The Wiz in the pop culture pantheon. That film, with its star-studded cast and larger-than-life sequences, introduced a whole new generation to the soulful charm and powerful messages embedded within the music. Even decades later, the influence of The Wiz continues to inspire, proving that certain stories, when told with heart and innovation, are truly timeless.
With so many versions of this tale in the world, what makes this one so special? According to Artistic Director Keith McCoy, it’s all about vision. “The beauty of doing a show like this, where there’s been dozens of versions, [is that] the way we visualize it in our heads, it’s completely different,” he shares. His focus is on making sure the offering he gives is fresh, “It’s going to be intense. You’re going to be moving the entire time, and there’s no stopping, no chance to breathe until you’re off stage.”…