You don’t need a yellow brick road to know when you’re headed somewhere magical, but it certainly doesn’t hurt.
The latest revival of The Wiz has arrived in Richmond, bringing with it a vibrant, joy-filled modern take on the beloved The Wizard of Oz story. Originally debuting on Broadway in 1975 and sweeping up seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this production proves that its heart, humor, and soul remain as powerful–and necessary–as ever.
If you’re unfamiliar with The Wiz, the musical follows Dorothy as she’s swept away from home and into the dazzling land of Oz, where she sets out on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, she forms deep friendships and learns that courage, love, and belief in oneself are within reach all along. This revival leans into that message, infusing every moment with a celebration of Black culture, community, and joy.
A Cast That Radiates Joy and Soul
From the first note, it’s clear that this cast came to play. Phoenix Assata LaFreniere brings a grounded warmth to Dorothy, guiding the audience through Oz with a sincerity that feels both relatable and quietly powerful. Her voice, like the rest of the cast’s, is nothing short of captivating.
The chemistry among the core group–Scarecrow (Lawrence Dandridge in this performance), Tinman (D. Jerome), and Lion (Cal Mitchell)–creates a dynamic that feels genuine and endearing. Their camaraderie underscores one of the show’s central themes: the importance of friendship and the ways we lift each other up.
While every cast member gave a show-stopping performance, my absolute favorite had to be D. Jerome as Tinman. His rendition of “Slide Some Oil to Me” (all of the music and lyrics are written by Charlie Smalls) is a full-body celebration of movement, packed with sharp choreography that incorporates hip-hop elements (made even more impressive after reading about the weight of his Tinman costume!). And Jerome’s voice in “What Would I Do If I Could Feel” injects soul into the ballad that had me unable to look away.
Another favorite for me was Kyla Jade (Aunt Em/Evillene). Jade brings a dynamic presence to her dual roles, filling Aunt Em with warmth and wit while giving Evillene a commanding edge. She has a natural ability to connect with the audience, earning laughs while still grounding the story in emotional authenticity.
A Visual Feast of Color, Texture, and Movement
Costume designer Sharen Davis delivers what might be some of the most memorable elements of the entire show. Each costume feels like a character in its own right, bursting with bold colors, intricate patterns, and an array of textures. There were ribbons and feathers, fringe and velvet, tulle and glitter–all woven together into designs that are as unique as the characters wearing them. I’ll be thinking about those costumes for many days to come.
The world of Oz is further brought to life through a combination of choreography and technical design. JaQuel Knight’s choreography (if you found yourself learning Beyonce’s iconic “Single Ladies” dance, then you’re already familiar with Knight’s genius) feels both modern and rooted, elevating numbers like the poppy field sequence into a high-energy, disco-funk spectacle. Meanwhile, the set leans heavily into the use of projection design (Daniel Brodie), which has received mixed feedback from audience members. While I always love admiring the details of an intricate set, the high-tech graphics kept me happily entranced in the world of Oz, and it transformed several moments into more immersive experiences.
Under the direction of Schele Williams, every element works together to create a production that feels cohesive, intentional, and full of life.
What lingers most after the final curtain call, though, isn’t just the spectacle–it’s the feeling. The Wiz radiates joy in a way that feels genuine and contagious. It’s a show that celebrates where you come from, who you surround yourself with, and the quiet strength it takes to believe in your own path. You leave the theater a little lighter, a little more hopeful, and maybe even a little more inclined to call up your friends and remind them how much they mean to you.
The Wiz plays at Altria Theater through April 26th, and tickets are available on their website. The musical runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission, and is a family-friendly show.
