The Wiz, a soul-filled version of the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, is a joyous retelling of Frank Baum’s classic children’s story grounded in contemporary African-American culture. With an infectious soul score, dynamic dance numbers and an endearing cast of characters, The Wiz brings an explosion of music, dance, magic and heart to Center for the Arts audience members of all ages this July.
“It beautifully provides social commentary while remaining consistent with the central themes of family, self-love and home. It was an influential work of art that informed me about the potential of creativity . . . the importance of knowledge,” said director and choreographer Patriq James. “This spirited and gifted cast ranges from first-timers to highly regarded artists in the industry and they have made it their business to knock your socks off!”
After Dorothy (Zakiyah Lamb) gets swept up in a tornado, she finds herself in the fantastical world of Oz. There, she makes new friends with the Lion (Terrell Hunt), Scarecrow (Drew Castle) and Tin Man (Terrance McBride); battles the evil witch Evillene (Rachael Gray); and seeks the aid of the all-powerful and mysterious Wiz (Shonka Dukureh). Ultimately, Dorothy finds that, if you believe with all your heart, you can always find your way home.
The Wiz features numerous musical numbers including the song “Home,” which has been a pop hit since 1977 and has been covered by artists including Diana Ross, Barbara Streisand and Whitney Houston.
Tickets start at $14 and are currently on sale at boroarts.org, by calling 615-904-ARTS (2787) or at the Center for the Arts Box Office, 110 W. College St., Murfreesboro.
This production is rated G.
The Wiz plays at 7:30 p.m. on July 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20, and at 2 p.m. on July 7, 14 and 21.
The cast of The Wiz includes:
Dorothy – Zakiyah Lamb
Glinda/Aunt Em – LaWanna Wilson
Lion/Uncle Henry – Terrell Hunt
Addapearle – April Sledge
Scarecrow – Drew Castle
Tin Man – Terrance McBride
Evillene – Rachael Gray
The Wiz – Shonka Dukureh
Munchkins/Field Mice – Malena Arhagba, Xavier Arhagba, Persephone DeHoff, Carli Jeanise Hicks, Patrick Sowder, Shania Williams
Lord High Underling – Desmond Kirkland
Gatekeeper – Maria McCormick
Soldier Messenger – Jantu Moore
Crow/Kalidah – Talijah Brooks, Kameron Bingham
Tornado – William Harris III
Ensemble – Miya Nicole Burt, Kamayah Collins, Kiarah Finch, Diamond Goins, Tremyiah Harris, Kai Concepcion Ingram, Paj Jackson, Gabrielle Lacy, Keivonte Newbell, Scheneithia Stickler, Maria Warrick-Allen
For more information on The Center for the Arts, visit boroarts.org.
