Kala Jade Photo by Jeremy Daniel

The Wiz is an adaptation of L. Frank Baum's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," meant to celebrate contemporary African-American culture. The musical premiered in 1974, and had a well-known film version in 1978 starring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. The basic story and characters found in The Wizard of Oz are present, but are shown through the lens of Black culture.

The original book for the musical is by William F. Brown, based on an idea by Ken Harper. As with the other primary versions of this tale, The Wiz likewise has Dorothy and her new friends Scarecrow, Tinman, and Lion traveling to meet the Wizard and facing the wrath of a wicked witch. Here, urban slang and situations are showcased, while still remaining accessible to all audiences. Certain elements of the story take on enhanced meaning and power from the African-American perspective. This production has additional material by Amber Ruffin (Some Like It Hot, CNN's "Have I Got News For You"), much of which provides modern cultural references and fresh humor.

The songs from The Wiz are its greatest asset. Most of the score is by Charlie Smalls. "Ease On Down The Road" is now a classic, and "Home," "Be A Lion," and "Believe in Yourself" are staples of the musical theatre canon as well. The lyrics by Smalls might not always adhere to strict rhyming, but they're descriptive, impactful, and fun. The music is top- notch, with slower songs soaring, featuring beautiful melodies. Faster-paced numbers such as "He's the Wiz" and "Don't Nobody Bring Me No Bad News" are soulful and full of energy. "Everybody Rejoice" is by Luther Vandross and is an uplifting expression of freedom and hope. For the Scarecrow, "You Can't Win" is wisely incorporated from the film version of the show.

The touring cast of The Wiz is a talented one. As Dorothy, Phoenix LaFreniere is endearing and shows off a clear and pleasing singing voice. Elijah Ahmad Lewis presents a humorous persona similar to Kevin Hart for the Scarecrow, and demonstrates great singing and dancing. D. Jerome captures the heart of the Tinman, with an especially impassioned "What Would I Do If I Could Feel?" and likewise is a remarkable dancer. Cal Mitchell supplies a booming voice and nuanced portrayal as the Lion.

Alan Mingo, Jr. exudes charisma with a sparkle in his eyes, capturing every essence of vaudevillian razzamatazz as The Wiz. As Glinda, Sheherazade provides strong vocals and powerfully delivers "Believe In Yourself" near the end of Act 2. The most impressive performance in the tour comes from Kyla Jade. As Aunt Em, she skillfully sings "The Feeling We Once Had" with emotional weight, and as Evillene, she makes "Don't Nobody Bring Me No Bad News" a true vocal showstopper. The hardworking and well-trained ensemble really get to show off during the Act 2 opener, "The Emerald City."

Director Schele Williams provides a strong vision for the show, with many unique ideas, including having a New Orleans-style jazz funeral parade for when the first Wicked Witch is crushed by Dorothy's house and using actors dressed as HBUC drum majors with yellow bricks on their costumes to represent the yellow brick road. Some of the choices by Williams might not be the clearest in the way of storytelling, but they provide variety and inventiveness to the presentation. Transitions and tone are appropriate throughout, though the pace wanes in a few spots.

The choreography by Jaquel Knight is active and beautiful. During the Act 2 opener, various styles such as Afrobeat, ballet, and club hip-hop create a lovely tapestry of visuals. Victor Simonson directs a talented 11-piece band of traveling and local musicians. The new arrangements and orchestrations by Joseph Joubert feel a bit thin at times and take some getting used to.

Hannah Beachler's scenic design smartly blends smaller set pieces with handsome video and projections by Daniel Brodie into a pleasing visual display. The striking costumes by Sharen Davis are apt and fun, and the lighting by Ryan J. O'Gara is varied and includes several well-suited effects.

The Wiz is a classic piece of American musical theatre with highly enjoyable songs and a familiar story told through a unique cultural lens. This tour features an extremely talented cast, worthwhile direction, and strong design and choreography. Audiences are dancing in their seats and feeling the emotions of this crowd-pleaser.

The Wiz runs through March 15, 2026, at the Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati OH. For tickets and information, please visit cincinnati.broadway.com or call 513-621-2787. For information on tour, visit wizmusical.com.