The Wiz: Live! kicked things off on Auntie Em’s farm, with Dorothy expressing her disdain regarding her current living situation. Dorothy states her hatred towards her new school and home, hoping to return to Omaha where her friends and childhood memories are. Auntie Em tells her that there is no one waiting for her back in Omaha; it is heavily implied that Dorothy’s parents are dead. Quickly following a song break, a storm begins. A tornado forms around Dorothy, pulling her in. Dorothy after becoming trapped inside the tornado, awakens in Munchkinland – one of the many places in the world of Oz. Munchkins thank Dorothy, believing that she had purposely dropped Auntie Em’s house on Evermean (Wicked Witch of the East). Addapearle (Good Witch of the North) soon meets Dorothy and explains that in order to get home, she must first meet the Wiz. After another song, the munchkins give Evermean’s silver slippers to Dorothy. Addapearle instructs her to keep the slippers on until she returns home. The munchkins tell Dorothy that by following the yellow brick road, she’ll be able to reach Emerald City …show more content…
was a worthy adaptation of the classic 1970s Broadway Musical. This adaptation is filled with beautiful visuals and set designs, fiery dance numbers, and grand music which showcase the talents of the the all-star cast. The cast includes big names such as: Stephanie Mills, Queen Latifah, Uzo Aduba, Mary J. Blige, Common, Ne-Yo, David Alan Grier, Amber Riley, Elijah Kelley, and countless others. Despite such big names being involved in the project, Shanice Williams still shines in the lead role – playing Dorothy. The actors work well together and have an honest chemistry. All come together to bring the production forth and help the adaptation exceed expectations. Despite pacing issues near the end (ending scenes seemed far too rushed without any evident transition), this production of The Wiz is one that is most worthy of praise and