The all-black cast is never not moving. The ensemble is portraying tornados and poppies and Ozians (residents of Oz) and Khalidas at every lull in the show. This is the most talented ensemble I've ever seen and got applause after each and every dance number. Now the story itself.
Oh hell we all know the story. Dorothy is played by 21-year-old Dana Cimone, a fireplug of energy who reminds one of a young Quinta Brunson of Abbott Elementary. She has a voice that ranges from tiny to powerful as hell. She belts out the opening number, and you immediately know this woman is going places. Along the way comes the Scarecrow, a rubber legged Elijah Lewis who reminds you of the OG Scarecrow Ray Bolger. Lewis is funny and boisterous and as I stated, quite the flexible bean pole. The Tin Man, played by D Jerome, has a great opening number and then kind of fades into the background. The Cowardly Lion, played by a flamboyant Cal Mitchell, also has a great introductory number but seems to maintain his presence throughout.
The Wiz is played by what is obviously the most experienced actor on stage, Alan Mingo Jr, whose very presence dominates the stage.
But let's talk about three women who just kill.
Amitria Fanae plays two roles. Addaperle, the Witch of the North AND the Oz gatekeeper. Her sassy attitude is the comedy of the show. She is such a natural comedian it's really a joy to see.
When we first see Kyla Jade, she is playing Aunt Em and blows it up with her first and only song. Wow! She was a finalist on The Voice a few years back and how she didn't win baffles me (I don't watch so I have no idea how the winners are chosen). She comes back as the Wicked Witch, Evillene, and she controls the musical at all times. Her voice is amazing, and her range is out of this world. When she is melted by Dorothy, her demise is both funny and sad cuz you know she won't be back.
Sheherade is Glinda and is really given little to do. But when she's out there you damn well know it. Another powerhouse voice.
Look, the talent onstage is undeniable. In fact, top to bottom it may be the most talented cast I've ever seen in a touring company. But the story is so familiar there's really nothing new. I understand the appeal of the Original Wizard of Oz since I am a white kid from the suburbs. Those people looked like me. But the Wiz could be the black kid's memory of the story and that's fine too. The music is certainly funkier than the original. The lyrics are certainly more appealing to black audiences. So, it's all a matter of taste and culture. If I had to choose, I wouldn't even try. One is as relevant as the other.
Now my mandatory complaint about the Orpheum. The sound sucks. The band often overwhelmed the singers and they were indecipherable. This happens there a lot. And it will probably always be that way. But that doesn't mean it can't be improved. Strive for it please.
The Wiz is a joy. A great fun time. Plus, you always know what is going on due to the ubiquitous story. of the Wizard of Oz. See it.
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