The North American Tour of The Wiz: A Triumphant Return to the Stage

The beloved musical The Wiz has returned to the spotlight with a spectacular North American tour that brings new life, energy, and meaning to a timeless classic. With its dazzling visuals, extraordinary performances, and a message of empowerment, the 2024–2025 tour of The Wiz is not only a celebration of Black culture and artistry but also a significant theatrical event capturing the hearts of audiences across the continent.

History of The Wiz

The Wiz first opened on Broadway in 1975 and quickly became a groundbreaking production, winning seven Tony Awards including Best Musical. A retelling of L. Frank Baum’s “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” with an all-Black cast, The Wiz infused the familiar tale with soul, R&B, gospel, and funk, creating a uniquely African American experience that resonated with audiences far and wide.

The original production starred Stephanie Mills as Dorothy and introduced such iconic songs as “Ease On Down the Road,” “Home,” and “Brand New Day.” Over the decades, The Wiz has seen several revivals and adaptations, including the 1978 film version starring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson, and NBC’s live television special in 2015.

The Return: 2024–2025 North American Tour

The highly anticipated tour of The Wiz launched in 2024, marking a bold reimagining of the classic with the support of powerhouse producers and a creative team dedicated to honoring its legacy while bringing a fresh and contemporary feel. Directed by Schele Williams, choreographed by JaQuel Knight, and featuring scenic designs by Hannah Beachler, this new production is an artistic triumph that blends nostalgia with innovation.

The tour kicked off with a bang in Baltimore, Maryland — a fitting choice, given the city’s deep cultural and musical roots. From there, it has traveled through major cities including Chicago, Los Angeles, Toronto, Houston, and Atlanta, with additional stops scheduled in over 30 cities across the U.S. and Canada.

Plot Overview

The Wiz follows the journey of Dorothy, a young Black girl who is swept away from her home in Kansas to the magical land of Oz by a tornado. Along the way, she befriends the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, each of whom is seeking something they believe they lack: a brain, a heart, and courage. Together, they follow the Yellow Brick Road in search of the powerful Wiz who they believe can help them all.

The story, while familiar, is told through the lens of Black culture, with a soundtrack that embraces the richness and diversity of African American musical traditions. This perspective gives The Wiz its unique flavor and enduring relevance.

The Cast

The current tour features a dynamic cast of established stars and rising talents. Nichelle Lewis leads as Dorothy, bringing powerful vocals and emotional depth to the role. Wayne Brady appears as the Wiz in select cities, delivering charm and charisma that keeps audiences enthralled. Other standout performers include Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tin Man, and Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Cowardly Lion.

The ensemble cast contributes significantly to the vibrancy of the show, executing complex choreography and harmonies with flair. The chemistry among the performers is palpable, making each scene come alive with energy and heart.

Musical Highlights

One of the biggest draws of The Wiz is its unforgettable music. Songs like “Ease On Down the Road,” “Be a Lion,” “You Can’t Win,” and “Home” are performed with fresh arrangements and vocal excellence. The score, originally composed by Charlie Smalls, remains as compelling today as it was nearly 50 years ago.

The live band accompanying the show adds depth and authenticity to the performance, making the musical numbers both emotionally resonant and irresistibly danceable. Audience members often find themselves clapping along, immersed in the rhythms and melodies.

Set and Costume Design

Visually, the 2024–2025 tour is a feast for the eyes. Scenic designer Hannah Beachler, known for her Oscar-winning work on “Black Panther,” brings a cinematic quality to the stage. The sets are immersive, colorful, and full of imaginative details that transport the audience into Dorothy’s fantastical world.

Costume designer Sharen Davis has created a wardrobe that pays homage to the original designs while incorporating modern fashion elements. The result is a stylish and vibrant aesthetic that enhances the characters and brings each scene to life.

Choreography and Direction

Choreographer JaQuel Knight, known for his work with Beyoncé, infuses the show with high-energy dance routines that reflect contemporary movement styles while respecting the show’s legacy. Director Schele Williams ensures that every element — from staging to lighting to performance — works in harmony to create a cohesive and emotionally impactful experience.

The direction places a strong emphasis on themes of self-discovery, community, and resilience, which resonate strongly with today’s audiences. The use of multimedia, dynamic lighting, and seamless scene transitions enhances the storytelling and keeps the pace brisk and engaging.

Audience Reception and Cultural Impact

Critics and audiences alike have praised the tour for its innovation, emotional power, and artistic excellence. Many have noted that The Wiz feels more relevant than ever, addressing themes of identity, empowerment, and belonging in a way that is accessible and inspiring to modern viewers.

Beyond its entertainment value, the tour serves as a celebration of Black excellence in the performing arts. It provides opportunities for Black creatives both onstage and behind the scenes, and offers representation that is meaningful and necessary in today’s cultural landscape.

Educational Outreach and Community Engagement

The producers of The Wiz have made a commitment to outreach and education. Many cities on the tour include special matinee performances for school groups, talkbacks with cast members, and workshops focusing on theater arts and storytelling. These initiatives aim to inspire the next generation of performers and theatergoers, particularly in underserved communities.

The tour has also partnered with local arts organizations and community centers to offer discounted tickets and special events that bring the magic of The Wiz to a broader audience.

Tour Dates and Locations

As of Spring 2025, the tour is scheduled to visit over 30 cities, including:

  • New York, NY
  • Chicago, IL
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Toronto, ON
  • Atlanta, GA
  • Houston, TX
  • Washington, D.C.
  • Philadelphia, PA
  • Detroit, MI
  • San Francisco, CA
  • Denver, CO
  • Seattle, WA

Ticket information, tour updates, and venue details can be found on the official
website for the tour and through major ticketing platforms.

Conclusion

The North American tour of The Wiz is more than just a revival — it is a revelation. With its powerful performances, stunning visuals, and important cultural themes, it proves that this classic musical still has the power to move and inspire. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the story, this tour offers a theater experience that is not to be missed.

So ease on down the road to your nearest theater and experience the magic, the music, and the message of The Wiz — a true celebration of creativity, courage, and community.