Last night, I was invited to take a stroll down the yellow brick road to see The Wiz starring pop/R&B songstress Ashanti. I have always been a huge fan of the 1978 film version with Diana Ross and Michael Jackson so I was excited to see the live production. If you’re wondering if Ashanti was able to hold her own with powerhouse cast mates such as LaChanze (she won a Tony for her role in the Broadway production of The Color Purple), Tichina Arnold and Dawnn Lewis, you’d be pleasantly surprised to learn that Ms. “Aw Baby” herself did a wonderful job! The male cast was excellent too, but for me the Tin Man played by Joshua Henry stole the show with his unbelievable vocals.
Overall, the show is a must-see for those who love the spin on the classic L. Frank Baum tale. Although, the costumes seemed a bit lack-luster, it was still a feel-good production that’s great for the entire family. If you’re in the New York City area and would like to see the play, it will be showing until July 5th at The New York City Center located 131 W. 55th Street.
Are you a fan of The Wiz?
LOVE The Wiz!
I love The WIZ,it’s a classic! I’m disappointed that the costumes were lack-luster..The fact that they were over-the-top in the orig. was a part of it’s originality & whimsy. Those costumes were spectacular!!
@Andrea – I will say that Tichina Arnold’s costume was good – she was the Wicked Witch of the West. Too bad no photos were available of her. I didn’t like Ashanti’s dress at all! It looked like an ice skating dress.
Nice to hear that you enjoy it. I was thinking of getting tickets for it.
I would have loved to see it.
I’m a huge fan. I got to see the orig with Stephanie Mills a little girl.
That would be such a great play to see! I absolutely adored the movie and to this day, know every single song by heart.
Do you know if they are planning to tour the play in other states? It would be great if they came to California!
I love The Wiz. I wish I could see it but I won’t be in NY anytime soon. Thanks for the review.
BGG, come on! Who doesn’t love The Wiz! That has to be an all time favorite for black folks everywhere! I remember how we packed the theaters and were not disappointed. From beginning to end it was excellent. I went on to play the mean old lion at the park district! I nailed it! I’d love to see the play. I hope it comes to H-town!
If you guys see it, there was one MAJOR disappointment. The scarecrow didn’t sing, “You Can’t Win!” I was soooooo looking forward to hearing that song because it’s one of my faves from the movie. Maybe he sang the original song from the play with Stephanie Mills. I saw that play too, but I was either 4 or 5 so I don’t remember. I guess he didn’t want to mess with Mr. Jackson’s classic rendition! ahahaha
Diana Ross & M. Jackson in the same movie -priceless. YEs I’m a wiz girl 🙂 I need to see this play.
Thanks
PJD
I remember watching The Wiz when I was younger. I was curious as to whether Ashanti could do broadway as well, especially with LaChanze (from the Color Purple), but I’ve heard she’s doing well. Great review BGG!
i JUST walked by the theatre last night, cant say im excited… also Ashanti weirds me out :-O
Aww how long is it going to be shown? May not get to NY again for a few months. Did they “outsing” Ashante? Tichina Arnold can blow.
Sounds like a good time!!
I am a fan. Don’t nobody bring me no bad news!
i am a fan. i saw it once a long time ago and couldnt find the dvd forever. just got it this year. love that movie.
Oh I would love to see this, it looks really good. Lets hope it makes it’s way to London.
I saw the play this past weekend. “Community Theater w/ Ashanti”. LaChanze and Tichina Arnold were the stars of the play. In fact, everyone did very well except for Ashanti. She never took command of the stage and it made the supporting performers look bad in effort not to overshadow her. Should you see it? Yes. The choreography was simply amazing and creative and again, I wouldn’t miss out on seeing LaChanze or Tichina.Here’s hoping the Ashanti’s understudy is there the night you decide to go.
@Miss Mika & Ecko – I’m not sure if it’s going to be showing in other cities. I know that July 5th is the last day in New York City.
I LOVE THE WIZ!