Exciting news for theater enthusiasts! The highly-anticipated Broadway revival of The Wiz has found its leading lady in the talented Nichelle Lewis. After an extensive search that involved reviewing over 2,000 auditions, Lewis emerged victorious and secured the coveted role of Dorothy. Her incredible talent and captivating performances caught the attention of the production team via a TikTok video.
A Rising Star’s Journey
Nichelle Lewis hails from Virginia, where her passion for singing and acting first took root. She has already made waves in the theater industry, having previously appeared in notable productions such as Hairspray, Little Shop of Horrors, Bare: A Pop Opera, and the latest musical sensation, Labelless. Her exceptional talent and dedication have earned her recognition, including winning first place in the young adult popular vote at the 2021 Music International Grand Prix.
The Wiz revival also boasts an impressive team behind it. In an exciting announcement, Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker have been named as producers for this highly anticipated production. Adding to the excitement, talented songwriter Amber Rose has contributed fresh material to the show. The revival features Wayne Brady in the title role and showcases the remarkable performances of Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Avery Wilson, a former contestant on The Voice, as the Scarecrow.
The Wiz, which originally premiered on Broadway in 1975, captivated audiences and went on to win an impressive seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The role of Dorothy was famously portrayed by Stephanie Mills, both on Broadway and in the 1984 revival. The iconic 1978 film adaptation starred Diana Ross as Dorothy, alongside Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow, Lena Horne as Glinda, and Richard Pryor as the Wiz.
Stepping into the role of director is the talented Schele Williams, while the choreography is masterfully crafted by JaQuel Knight. The book for The Wiz revival was written by William F. Brown, with a Tony Award-winning score composed by Charlie Smalls and others. With such an exceptional creative team at the helm, audiences can anticipate a fresh and innovative interpretation of this beloved classic.
The Wiz revival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that pays homage to the original production while infusing it with new energy and creativity. Nichelle Lewis’s undeniable talent, alongside the incredible cast and talented creative team, ensures a production that will be talked about and cherished for years to come. As spring approaches, theater enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate the opening night, eagerly awaiting the moment when they can follow Dorothy as she eases on down the road once again.