Review by Shelby Coleman
The Wiz presented by Broadway in Cincinnati, is open and running at the Aronoff Center for the Arts. This fantastic take on L. Frank Baum’s beloved Wizard of Oz brings spectacle to the Aronoff stage for audiences of all ages.
The Story
Are you one of the millions obsessed with L. Frank Baum’s Land of Oz? Through books, musicals and movies, Oz has quickly become the daydream for most. With new musical lovers being introduced to the theatre world through the two-part movie version of Wicked, The Wiz offers another take on this beloved universe. Find yourself fangirling over Evillene, Addaperle, and a different version of Glinda. You just may find that you switch from team Elphaba to one of the fabulous witches The Wiz has to offer.
The Wiz is a joyous retelling of L. Frank Baum’s classic children’s story reflecting contemporary Black culture. After Dorothy is swept up in a tornado, she finds herself in the fantastical world of Oz. There, she makes new friends, battles evil witches, and seeks the aid of the all-powerful and mysterious Wiz. Ultimately, Dorothy finds that, if you believe with all your heart, you can always find your way home. With an infectious soul score, dynamic numbers, and endearing cast of characters, The Wiz is a joyous explosion of music, dance, magic, and heart to delight audience members of all ages.
Powerhouse Performances
The Wiz follows the well-known tale of Dorothy (Phoenix LaFreniere) as she finds herself leaving her new home in Kansas behind and journeying through the magical land of Oz. LaFreniere brings a larger-than-life performance to the stage with powerful vocals and a command of the stage beyond her years that truly emulate the presence of all the iconic Dorothy’s of the past. LaFreniere is kind, gutsy and raw in her approach to each defining moment in Dorothy’s journey. If you haven’t yet grabbed your seat, do so immediately to catch this star on the rise.
Audiences come for the beloved story, stay for the incredible spectacle, and will come back for more of Kyla Jade’s incredible performance as Evillene. Kyla Jade’s initial performance as Aunt Em brings a warmth and playfulness to the stage. Then Jade makes a complete 180 as she enters in Oz as Evillene, the Wicked Witch of the West. She provides a spunk and charisma that fills the entire house. Not only does Jade provide a fantastic presence and intricate acting choices, but she also brings the voice that can–and will–blow the roof off the joint. Jade’s rendition of “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News” creates a frenzy of boot stomping, knee slapping, and a mid-show standing ovation. Although this is Jade’s National Tour debut, she is no stranger to the stage and there is no doubt we will be seeing much more of her!
While it’s Dorothy’s story that the show follows, the stage is full of powerhouse performances from dozens of performers.
Jeremy Daniel.
Production Team
On top of the incredible vocals showcased by each artist in this production, audiences are in for a treat with the choreography of JaQuel Knight. He infuses African American culture into each beat. Knight has been able to combine the spectacle of musical numbers with the emotion of modern dance. This can be seen through Alvin Ailey evoking numbers such as the tornado and “You Can’t Win”. Influences from West African dance, disco, and many other styles can be seen throughout the fantastical Land of Oz. The ensemble of this production showcase incredible control and technique as Knight relies on the movement to create so much emotion.
With a book by William F. Brown and award winning music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls, It is no surprise that The Wiz delights and entertains audiences of all ages. Director Schele Williams brings modern colloquialisms and culturally relevant material to the stage in this National Tour of The Wiz. Designers Hannah Beachler (Scenic), Sharen Davis (Costume), Ryan J. O’Gara (Lighting), and Jon Weston (Sound) have worked together to truly create an entire world on the Aronoff stage. Audience members are quickly swept up into the universe of Oz and forget all troubles and woes as they journey through the magical land with Dorothy and friends.
While the scenic design leans into simplicity, relying heavily on video walls and lighting, these pieces create and an entire world. Although the stage may look deceptively minimal before the rise of the curtain, there is no shortage of spectacle and glamour when the lights, sound and ensemble come together on the stage.
Photo by Jeremy Daniel.
Overall
The Wiz brings new life to the timeless children’s story. With vocal performances fit for the Grammys, you must experience this show yourself. A classic musical transforms for the modern age that any music lover will enjoy. Come to spend your evening laughing, crying and dancing along as this incredible cast takes us through a new version of a timeless classic.
Tickets to The Wiz
The Wiz will play at the Aronoff Center from March 3-15, 2026:
- Tuesdays – Fridays at 7:30 PM
- Saturdays at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM
- Sundays at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM.
Tickets start at $48. Purchase tickets at CincinnatiArts.org, by phone at 513.621.ARTS or in person at the Aronoff Center Box Office downtown.
For groups of 10 or more, contact the group sales department at 513.369.4363. Performance schedule, prices and cast are subject to change without notice.
For more information, please visit BroadwayInCincinnati.com
