A Modern Spin on a Timeless Classic
Broadway welcomed back a legend with open arms on its historic Opening Night of “The Wiz,” marking its return after nearly 45 years. The revival of this beloved musical has been a much-anticipated event, and the stars aligned as Wayne Brady donned the role of The Wiz, Deborah Cox enchanted as Glinda, and the talented newcomer Nichelle Lewis stole hearts as Dorothy. Check out our Xtra Xclusive highlight reel of the premiere below!
Xtra Access TV hit the Gold Carpet, rubbing shoulders with the cast and catching up with special guests like Talk Show Host Sherri Shepherd, Actress Brandee Evans from ‘P-Valley’, The Wiz, Live’s Shanice Williams and Television Personality Peppermint, among others.
From one host to another, Correspondent David A. Correa celebrated Sherri Shepherd’s success and talked about believing yourself into your dreams.
Actress Brandee Evans shares her long-time love for the classic musical, and how she has followed this version across the country.
The Wiz Live’s Shanice Williams hit the gold carpet to welcome and celebrate the newest Dorothy to add to the legacy of the Wiz.
Peppermint talks about the importance of inclusion and being able to see yourself represented.
Director Schele Williams brought a fresh perspective to the classic tale, infusing it with a modern spin that she credits to her children’s inspiration. Her vision aimed to make “The Wiz” more approachable and relatable to newer generations, a goal that resonated deeply with the cast and audience alike.
Schele Williams talks about the trajectory of her career from AIDA to THE WIZ.
One of the standout elements of this revival is the casting of Dorothy’s companions: the Lion, the Scarecrow, and the Tinman, played by Kyle Ramar Freeman, Avery Wilson, and Phillip Johnson Richardson, respectively. Unlike traditional portrayals, where they often assume an elder mentorship role, in this rendition, they are equals to Dorothy, showcasing a friendship that blooms in a refreshing light.
Nichelle Lewis tells us what it feels like to debut on Broadway as Dorothy in The Wiz.
Kyle Ramar Freeman talks about bringing the iconic character of the Lion back to Broadway.
A New Haven, Connecticut native, Avery Wilson, talks about breaking into theater in a big way.
The Tinman (Phillip Johnson Richardson) talks about how much heart it takes to make it on Broadway.
Melody A. Betts has been earning accolades nationwide for her remarkable portrayal of Aunt Em and Evillene. She seamlessly transitions between characters with grace and depth that leaves audiences astonished. She hit the carpet in an Evillene inspired gown and spread love as she made her way down the carpet.
Melody A. Betts talked about knowing herself enough to be able to hone her craft, and how that brought her to this moment.
Adding to the star power of the show are Broadway veterans Wayne Brady and Deborah Cox.
Brady’s charisma and mischievous charm as The Wiz mark his fourth Broadway outing, a role that he finds deeply moving for its empowerment of people of color to dream and believe in themselves.
Cox’s enchanting performance as Glinda, her third time gracing the Broadway stage, embodies the show’s central theme of self-belief, a sentiment she attributes to her own success.
Power Couple Pierre Jean Gonzalez and Cedric Leiba Jr. share why The Wiz returning to Broadway is so impactful and why they chose to join the producing team as Co-Producers.
The Gold Carpet exuded love and celebration, capturing the essence of a momentous night in Broadway history. With this limited engagement running until August, theater enthusiasts are urged to seize the opportunity and witness this spectacular revival of “The Wiz.”
In the heart of New York City, where dreams are born and fantasies come alive, “The Wiz” takes its audience on a journey of self-discovery and belief, weaving a tapestry of magic and music that transcends time and captivates the soul.
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