Producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, Ambassador Theatre Group, along with Atlanta’s renowned Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker, are excited to announce the highly anticipated national tour of THE WIZ. This Tony Award®-winning Best Musical is making its grand return to Atlanta’s Fox Theatre from November 14th to 19th, with tickets available starting September 15th.
THE WIZ, a cultural phenomenon that once captivated audiences worldwide, is now back in Atlanta as a part of the 2023/2024 Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta season. Ticket prices begin at just $49, and you can find additional ticket information at Foxtheatre.org/thewiz and wizmusical.com. Groups of 10 or more can make special arrangements by contacting sales@foxtheatre.org. After enchanting Atlanta, the tour will embark on a nationwide journey before gracing Broadway’s stage in spring 2024.
This revival is not just a comeback; it’s a heartfelt return to American stages after four decades. The journey commences in Baltimore, where THE WIZ had its world premiere 50 years ago. This reimagined adaptation of The Wizard of Oz has left an indelible mark on Broadway, offering a soulful score infused with gospel, rock, and 70s funk while narrating Dorothy’s modern-day quest for belonging.
The show boasts an exceptional cast, with Alan Mingo Jr. as The Wiz, acclaimed recording artist Deborah Cox as Glinda, Melody Betts taking on the roles of Aunt Em and Evillene, and Kyle Ramar Freeman as Lion. Phillip Johnson Richardson and recording artist Avery Wilson portray Scarecrow, and Nichelle Lewis makes her dazzling Broadway debut as Dorothy.
Director Schele Williams and choreographer JaQuel Knight have reinvigorated the land of Oz, delivering an unparalleled experience. Charlie Smalls’ Tony Award®-winning score, featuring iconic tunes like “Ease on Down the Road” and “Home,” is complemented by new musical moments, creating a vibrant and unforgettable show.
Beyond the stage, THE WIZ is making a statement about diversity and inclusion. The production is proudly produced by Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, and The Ambassador Theatre Group, with Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker representing Atlanta’s creative talent. Their involvement emphasizes the significance of diverse voices in theater.
Kandi Burruss, during a heartfelt press conference statement, underscored the importance of her role in bringing THE WIZ back to Broadway, particularly as a black woman. She highlighted the show’s remarkable quality, from set design to costumes and the talent on display. Burruss also shared her journey from aspiring talent to wanting to understand the business side of Broadway, with a goal to help others from Atlanta achieve their dreams in the theater.
Todd Tucker, on a personal note, reminisced about his childhood experiences with THE WIZ, his joy in sharing it with his own children, and the generational and familial aspect of the show. He echoed Kandi’s sentiments regarding the transformative power of the arts.