The Fisher Theatre is currently home to a joyful burst of color, rhythm, and heart as The Wiz national tour lights up Broadway in Detroit’s 2024–2025 season. From the opening moments in Kansas to the glittering green glow of the Emerald City, this revival is a soul-stirring celebration that honors the legacy of the original while bringing a fresh new vision to the stage.
Visually, this production is nothing short of stunning. The costumes, designed by Sharen Davis, are a masterclass in storytelling—rich with Afro-futuristic details, bold color palettes, and high-fashion flair that seamlessly transition as Dorothy makes her way down the Yellow Brick Road. Every character’s look feels specific, stylish, and alive with personality. The set design complements this vibrant visual world, using innovative lighting, video projections, and sharp staging to create a fluid, dreamlike version of Oz that still feels grounded in cultural pride and identity.
At the heart of this production is Dana Cimone, who gives a radiant and emotionally grounded performance as Dorothy. Her voice is rich and powerful, with just the right amount of vulnerability to make you lean in and listen. She delivers standout vocals in “Soon as I Get Home” and “Home,” earning well-deserved ovations that felt less like applause and more like collective gratitude. Her interpretation of Dorothy feels fresh, young, and hopeful—without ever losing the weight of the journey she’s on.
The rest of the principal cast brings depth and joy to their roles. Elijah Ahmad Lewis is nimble and full of charm as the Scarecrow, bringing warmth and wit to his movement and vocals. D. Jerome, as the Tinman, offers a soulful take on a character so often played with stoic reserve. His version is emotionally accessible and deeply human. Cal Mitchell as the Lion adds comic relief without ever being a caricature. His timing is impeccable, and his stage presence is magnetic.
Alan Mingo Jr. brings commanding energy and charisma to the title role of The Wiz, infusing the character with both theatrical flair and emotional complexity. He knows how to play to the crowd but never lets go of the character’s deeper layers. It’s a standout performance that anchors the production’s final act.
Other highlights include Kyla Jade, who stuns in dual roles as Aunt Em and Evillene. Her vocal performance in “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News” is one of the night’s biggest crowd-pleasers, and she makes both roles distinct and memorable. Sheherazade offers a glowing presence as Glinda, her voice smooth and soul-soothing, adding a graceful finish to Dorothy’s journey home.
The choreography, under the direction of JaQuel Knight, is a brilliant mix of styles—from funk and gospel to contemporary hip-hop and Broadway classicism. Each dance number feels like a celebration of Black joy and artistic excellence. Numbers like “Brand New Day” and “Y’All Got It” bring an infectious energy that had audience members dancing in their seats.
The Fisher Building itself couldn’t be a more fitting backdrop for this production. The Art Deco grandeur of the space mirrors the stylish, elevated tone of the show and helps create an immersive theatrical experience from the moment you step inside. Arriving early offers added perks—several shops in the building are open before curtain, offering Wiz-inspired merchandise and souvenirs that help extend the experience beyond the stage. From themed jewelry and apparel to limited-edition collectibles, fans of the show will find something special to take home.
There’s a particular magic in seeing The Wiz return to Detroit. This city has a long, proud connection to the show’s history, and the energy inside the Fisher Theatre reflects that bond. The audience didn’t just watch the performance—they responded to it, lived in it, and gave it back tenfold through applause, laughter, and heartfelt cheers.
This revival isn’t just a retelling of a beloved story—it’s a reclamation and reimagination of a cultural milestone. It celebrates Black excellence across every department—from performance to production, music to movement. It reminds us of the power of representation, the importance of joy, and the unbreakable spirit that comes with finding your way home.
The Wiz runs at the Fisher Theatre through June 29. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or seeing it for the first time, this is a production that uplifts, entertains, and inspires. It’s everything musical theatre should be: visually spectacular, emotionally resonant, and filled with soul. Detroit is lucky to host this stop on the tour, and audiences will walk away not only entertained—but transformed.