News Summary
Orlando will host the premiere of the acclaimed musical The Wiz, showcasing Dorothy’s journey in an all-Black adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. Running from September 30 to October 5, 2025, at the Dr. Phillips Center, this production features a stellar cast and innovative choreography. Tickets start at $62.20, with a special student rush option for $35. Set to tour North America until 2026, The Wiz continues to celebrate themes of self-discovery and resilience through its vibrant storytelling and dynamic score.
Orlando is set to host a star-studded premiere of The Wiz from September 30 to October 5, 2025, at the Dr. Phillips Center. This beloved musical showcases Dorothy’s journey in an all-Black adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. The production, which first opened on Broadway in 1975, has since won seven Tony Awards and is renowned for its dynamic score infused with soul, gospel, rock, and the signature sounds of ’70s funk.
The main cast includes notable performers such as Cal Mitchell as the Cowardly Lion, Dana Cimone playing Dorothy, D. Jerome as the Tinman, and Elijah Ahmad Lewis as the Scarecrow. The tour, which is anticipated to be a captivating experience, is directed by Schele Williams, with choreography by JaQuel Knight. Additional material for this production has been contributed by Amber Ruffin, a Tony- and Emmy-nominated writer and TV host.
Tickets for The Wiz start at $62.20, with a special student rush ticket option available for $35, purchasable at the box office on the day of the performance. The musical will tour North America until May 2026, with various stops planned in cities such as Miami, Tampa, and West Palm Beach.
Critics have already begun to commend the production for its powerhouse performances and captivating choreography. Set design incorporates cutting-edge technology, with visuals leveraging computer-generated imagery (CGI). However, some audience members expressed that these visuals appeared less polished than expected. Standout musical numbers include the Poppy scene and the introduction of the Emerald City, which are expected to leave audiences enthralled.
Additionally, the Dr. Phillips Center has added a unique twist for theatergoers by introducing themed cocktails specifically designed for the run of The Wiz. This engagement initiative adds an extra layer of enjoyment for attendees looking to enhance their experience at the show.
The Wiz continues its legacy as a powerful cultural artifact, highlighting themes of self-discovery and resilience through its vibrant storytelling. The combination of ballet, jazz, and modern pop dance styles in the choreography emphasizes the show’s connection to both its historical and contemporary roots.
More information regarding box office details, ticket purchases, and showtimes can be found through the Dr. Phillips Center website.
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Additional Resources
- Attractions Magazine
- TBN Weekly
- Click Orlando
- Fox 13 News
- Broadway World
- Wikipedia: The Wiz
- Google Search: The Wiz musical
- Google Scholar: The Wiz musical
- Encyclopedia Britannica: The Wiz
- Google News: The Wiz musical
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