The Broadway musical The Wiz is returning to Memphis at The Orpheum Theatre next week. As part of the first U.S. tour in 40 years since 1992, the groundbreaking musical will end the theater’s 2024-2025 season.
The Wiz is a twist on The Wizard of Oz with a soul, gospel, rock, and ’70s funk sound while showing Dorothy’s journey to find her place in the contemporary world — with a fusion of ballet, jazz, and modern pop that brings a fun vibe to the all-Black musical extravaganza. Public relations director Kristin Bennett says, “The Wiz is truly a show for the entire family to enjoy! Whether it’s someone who’s a fan of Broadway, someone who has nostalgia for the iconic film, or someone who just loves incredible music, dancing, and singing, they are going to discover that The Wiz is a night of pure joy!”
The show is being adapted from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. Its creative team includes director Schele Williams, choreographer JaQuel Knight, and musical supervision, orchestrations, and music arrangements by Joseph Joubert. The main cast includes Dana Cimone as Dorothy, Alan Mingo Jr. as The Wiz, Sheherazade as Glinda, Kyla Jade as Aunt Em/Evillene, D. Jerome as Tinman, Elijah Ahmad Lewis as Scarecrow, and Cal Mitchell as Lion.
The musical will run from July 22nd to July 27th with a run time of two hours and 30 minutes and a 20-minute intermission. Ticket pricing ranges from $29 to $130 and can be purchased here. Groups of 10 or more are eligible for discounts, priority seating, flexible options, reserve now and pay later, and VIP treatment. Children ages 4 and up are permitted with their own ticket.