Dorothy's Dazzling Journey: The Wiz Revival Lights Up Broadway with Hypercolor Magic
In a whirlwind of colors and sounds reminiscent of the vibrant 1970s, "The Wiz" makes its triumphant return to the stage. However, what could have been a magical journey through the beloved tale of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" takes a detour into a hyperactive realm of sensory overload.
Directed by Schele Williams, the production opens with promise, offering a tender moment between Dorothy and Aunt Em, beautifully rendered in grayscale. Yet, as the story propels into the technicolor world of Oz, the stage becomes a cacophony of competing visuals and amplified chaos. From storybook scenery to uncanny projections, every surface seems overworked, drowning out the performances of the talented cast.
Technical issues further exacerbate the disconnect, with lyrics often lost amidst the orchestra's overpowering volume. Even the charming voice of Deborah Cox as Glinda struggles to rise above the auditory onslaught. Newcomer Nichelle Lewis, with her delicate voice and modest presence, feels overshadowed, relegated to the background of her own adventure.
Despite these challenges, standout moments of electrifying choreography and hip-hop flair manage to shine through. Wayne Brady's suave rendition of the title character and Phillip Johnson Richardson's liquid take on "What Would I Do if I Could Feel" provide glimpses of the production's potential.
However, revisions to the book by comedian Amber Ruffin fail to fully rescue the disjointed plot, leaving audiences scratching their heads. Even attempts at updated humor feel out of place amidst the unwaveringly earnest tone of the production.
Ultimately, this maximalist revival of "The Wiz" may dazzle with its candy-colored exuberance, but it struggles to forge a meaningful connection with its audience. In a landscape devoid of dark, threatening corners, Oz feels more like a playground than a crucible of self-discovery. As Dorothy embarks on her journey home, one can't help but wonder what lessons she's truly learned amidst the spectacle. Perhaps, in the midst of all the chaos, her senses could simply use a break.
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