News Summary
The Tony Award-winning musical The Wiz will return to the Orpheum Theatre in Memphis, Tennessee, for a week-long run this summer. From July 22 to July 27, audiences can enjoy an all-Black cast and a vibrant mix of music and storytelling. Tickets go on sale on February 12, and the production highlights an outstanding ensemble with notable performances, reimagining the classic story through a contemporary lens. This much-anticipated event promises to engage audiences with its musical legacy and dynamic performances.
Memphis, Tennessee Welcomes the Return of The Wiz
The Tony Award-winning musical The Wiz will make its much-anticipated return to the Orpheum Theatre in Memphis, Tennessee, from July 22 to July 27. This beloved production combines an all-Black cast with a vibrant blend of music and storytelling that has captivated audiences since its original Broadway debut in 1975.
Tickets for the eight performances will go on sale on Wednesday, February 12, at 10 a.m. Interested fans can purchase tickets at the Orpheumโs box office located at 203 South Main Street, or online through Ticketmaster. For those who prefer to order via phone, they can call 901-525-3000.
Star-Studded Cast Takes Center Stage
This production of The Wiz boasts a talented principal cast. Dana Cimone is set to shine as Dorothy, marking her national tour debut in this iconic role. Alan Mingo Jr., who originated the role of The Wiz in the pre-Broadway tour and on Broadway, will reprise his celebrated performance. The cast also includes Sheherazade as Glinda, Kyla Jade as Aunt Em/Evillene, D. Jerome as the Tinman, Mykal Kilgore as the Lion, and Elijah Ahmad Lewis as the Scarecrow.
The ensemble cast features a diverse array of talent, including Maati Kheprimeni Angaza, Sai Anthony, Joseph Armon Boyd, Aliyah Caldwell, and many more, all contributing to the dynamic atmosphere of this musical extravaganza.
Creative Team Behind the Production
The direction of this production is under the helm of Schele Williams, known for her remarkable work on productions such as The Notebook and the revival of Disneyโs Aida. The choreography is crafted by award-winning choreographer JaQuel Knight, whose impressive rรฉsumรฉ includes collaborations with global superstar Beyoncรฉ.
The design elements of The Wiz are equally captivating, featuring the work of renowned professionals. The scenic design is led by Hannah Beachler, an Academy Award-winning designer, while the costumes are designed by Sharen Davis, known for her Emmy Award-winning contributions to theater and film.
Musical Legacy of The Wiz
The Wiz revitalizes the classic story from L. Frank Baum’s children’s book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, through a contemporary lens, combining elements of soul, gospel, rock, and 70s funk music. The musical score, written by Charlie Smalls and various contributors, includes memorable songs like โEverybody Rejoiceโ, performed by Luther Vandross, and the stirring โEmerald City Balletโ, arranged by Timothy Graphenreed.
The original Broadway production of The Wiz premiered in 1975 and secured seven Tony Awards, cementing its status as a groundbreaking piece of musical theater. With a fresh and invigorating take on the beloved tale, this upcoming production at the Orpheum Theatre promises to celebrate both the spirit and creativity of this iconic work.
Conclusion
The return of The Wiz to the Orpheum Theatre is set to be a monumental event for theater enthusiasts in Memphis. Audiences can look forward to an engaging blend of storytelling, music, and exceptional talent as they follow Dorothy’s journey to find her place in an uncertain world.
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Additional Resources
- Action News 5
- Broadway World
- Memphis Magazine
- Theater Mania
- Commercial Appeal
- Wikipedia: The Wiz
- Google Search: The Wiz musical
- Google Scholar: The Wiz
- Encyclopedia Britannica: The Wiz
- Google News: The Wiz
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
