Tony Award-winning musical The Wiz is a short trip down the yellow brick road on its stop at Wharton Center from Dec. 9-14.
The Wiz reimagines L. Frank Baum’s children’s book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, in its own way, featuring an all-black cast, vibrant songs and a tale that teaches lessons along the way. The score itself is packed with soul, gospel, rock and 70s funk.
"Our arrangers have reshaped some of the music to give it more depth, more light, and really honor its soul and gospel roots," Cal Mitchell, who plays Lion in The Wiz, said.
Some songs in the show include "Everybody Rejoice" (music and lyrics by Luther Vandross) and "The Emerald City Ballet" (music by Timothy Graphenreed).
Journalism sophomore Carlin Glenn hopes she can go. "I do plan on seeing it… I have that Wednesday off," she said.
Glenn works at Wharton Center's ticket booth answering questions, selling and exchanging tickets and helping with pre-show ticket issues like will-call or reprints.
"Broadway weeks are a little more stressful than the average week, but they’re always my favorite," Glenn said.
The Wiz first opened on Broadway in 1975 and became an immediate hit. It ended up winning seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Original Score and some acting awards. It made history when Geoffrey Holder won both Best Direction of a Musical and Best Costume Design.
The original show ran for four years on Broadway, first at the Majestic Theatre and later at the Broadway Theatre. In 1978, a movie version was released.
Mitchell’s most rewarding part of his performances thus far has been seeing a new generation of kids coming to shows.
"Two young kids dressed up as the Lion, and it really put into perspective that this show is going to have huge ramifications for young people," Mitchell said. "Seeing young African American kids come and get to see The Wiz means so much to me… It was the same way for me when I was younger."
For this performance, Mitchell said it has become something a bit more timeless and a bit more modern in its take. He said he believes this production of The Wiz is happiness, joy, laughter and craziness personified.
Glenn hasn’t seen The Wiz live but is really interested in Broadway shows. "I love when we take older pieces and modernize them," Glenn said.
Mitchell hopes audiences can get lost in the "crazy plot for two hours and forget about whatever’s happening outside the theater," he said.
Tickets are available online through Wharton’s website.
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