“The Wiz” touring MILWAUKEE reviewed by Amy Menzel

***** Well, I officially have a new favorite musical. I know, I know…The Wiz isn’t new. In fact, this revival marks the 50th anniversary of the original Broadway production. But this is the first tour of the show in 40 years. By all accounts (and I’ve poured over a lot of press videos in the last few hours), it’s a fresh take on the original groundbreaking adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. Alan Mingo Jr., who plays The Wiz and is associate director, explained to CBS Philadelphia that, “This show is not only for those who love the film [1978], but who also love the Broadway musical that came out 50 years ago, but it’s to introduce a brand new audience to it.”

And what an introduction. It’s bright, it’s bold, and it’ll blow you away (no tornado pun intended). The cast is incredible and I was shocked to read “National Broadway Tour debut!” so many times in cast bios. Phoenix Assata LaFreniere, Sheherazade, and Kyla Jade make their debuts as Dorothy, Glinda, and Aunt Em/Evillene, respectively, and they all absolutely command the stage from curtain to curtain. Cal Mitchell is also making his Broadway tour debut as Lion, and his performance kept my mom (and me) in stitches throughout the show. She’d be quick to add that she also got quite a kick out of Elijah Ahmad Lewis/EAL as Scarecrow and D. Jerome as Tinman (as did I).

I understand the script has been updated for this revival, and additional materials were contributed by acclaimed comedy writer Amber Ruffin. While I can’t speak to the specifics, I can say – with a great big smile – that the writing is tight and delivered with perfection.

And the set! And the costumes!! I noted that, somehow, I felt like I was on a ride during the show. The scenery (Hannah Beachler), the lighting (Ryan J. O’Gara), and the video and projection design (Daniel Brodie), create a depth of visual experience that’s immersive. I also noted that, beyond making me want to sing and dance, the show makes me want to wear a fun costume (Sharen Davis) and expressive make-up (Kirk Cambridge Del-Pesche). Reader, I can be caught dancing pretty regularly, but I could definitely use some lessons from choreographer Jaquel Knight. Yet there is not way I could be mistaken for a fashionista, and I don’t remember the last time I applied anything but lipbalm. Still, I want to be part of The Wiz world. I even wrote that I want to learn to sew fabulous costumes, which I definitely don’t, but the note is just further proof that I got carried away watching this show – in the best possible ways.

A year ago, while doing press for the show, director, Schele Williams told Broadway.com, “I love what I do and I love the show so much. And I needed it.” I get that. I love the opportunity to attend live theater, and I needed this show. I can appreciate – and I even love – more serious productions, but I crave feel-good theatrical experiences. Especially now.

If you, too, could use a dose of love and laughter, and want to see a spectacular show, get your tickets now.

★★★★★

The Wiz plays at Uihlein Hall at the Marcus Performing Arts Center (Milwaukee) and runs through March 29.

Wednesday – 7:30 p.m.
Thursday – 7:30 p.m.
Friday – 7:30 p.m.
Saturday – 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday – 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Sign Language Interpretation: Saturday, March 28 at 2:00 pm

The Wiz runs 2 hours and 20 minutes, including one intermission.

Tickets start at $53 and can be purchased at MarcusCenter.org or Ticketmaster.com or by calling 414-273-7206 or visiting the Marcus Center Box Office at 929 North Water Street, Milwaukee.

The next stop on the tour is Chicago! The Wiz plays at James M. Nederlander Theatre, as part of the Broadway In Chicago series.  March 31 – April 5.