About The Wiz Live!
Winner of 7 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, The Wiz was a massive Broadway hit which spawned a dismal feature film starring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. Executive Producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron have assembled a Tony-winning creative team, the imaginative Cirque du Soleil Theatrical and a diverse cast of showstoppers designed to create an eye-popping new take on the musical unlike anything ever seen.
A vibrant reimagining of a beloved stage classic has arrived, promising a spectacle that aims to capture the magic of live theatre for a television audience. The Wiz Live!, a 2015 broadcast event, dives headfirst into the iconic story of Dorothy's journey through the whimsical land of Oz. This production, by executive producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, known for their successful televised musicals, appears to be a deliberate departure from previous film adaptations, leaning heavily on the theatrical roots that made The Wiz a Tony-winning sensation. With a creative team boasting Tony Award pedigree and the innovative visual flair of Cirque du Soleil Theatrical, the production is positioned as a visually arresting and musically rich experience designed to dazzle.
What sets The Wiz Live! apart is its commitment to showcasing a diverse and talented ensemble, a hallmark of its Broadway origins. The casting emphasizes performers with strong stage presence and vocal prowess, aiming to translate the energy and spectacle of a live musical performance to the small screen. This approach caters specifically to viewers who appreciate the grandeur of musical theatre, the power of soaring vocals, and the joy of a well-told, fantastical story. It's a production that understands its audience craves authenticity in performance, a vibrant visual design, and a faithful yet fresh interpretation of a cherished narrative.
For those who revel in the magic of musicals and are drawn to stories of self-discovery and bravery, The Wiz Live! offers a compelling viewing experience. It’s a chance to witness a celebrated score come to life with contemporary production values, blending the classic tale with modern sensibilities. The focus on a fresh artistic vision, drawing from both theatrical excellence and avant-garde visual artistry, suggests a production that respects its legacy while forging its own distinct identity in the landscape of televised musicals.
Cast(33)
