Opening Night Review: The Wiz — A Timeless Triumph of Talent, Music, and Artistry
16 January 2026 Performance Review Review
Cal Mitchell as The Lion, Dana Cimone as Dorothy, D. Jerome as The Tinman, and Elijah Ahmad Lewis as The Scarecrow in the North American Tour of THE WIZ. Photo by Jeremy Daniel
I first experienced The Wiz in New York City as a young child in 1975. My mother, who loved the theater, took me to see a show that would permanently embed itself in my memory and shape my understanding of the power of live performance. After the curtain fell, the icing on the cake came when she turned to me and asked, “Would you like to meet Dorothy?” She took me backstage to meet a 17-year-old Stephanie Mills in her tiny dressing room. I remember standing there in awe, unable to believe this was real. That moment never left me — and watching opening night of The Wiz on January 13th at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, that same sense of wonder returned to an entirely new level.
This production of The Wiz is a joyful, captivating, and visually stunning celebration of everything that makes the show endure. From its stellar cast and electrifying music to its imaginative set design and vibrant costumes, it delivers a fully realized theatrical experience that honors the past while feeling thrillingly alive and timely.
The cast is exceptional across the board, and their performances and depth of talent left the audiences in awe. Dana Cimone anchors the production as Dorothy with warmth, vulnerability, and quiet strength, allowing the character to grow organically before our eyes. Rather than playing her as simply wide-eyed innocence, Cimone’s Dorothy embodies a performance that is deeply moving and captivating.
Cal Mitchell as The Lion, Elijah Ahmad Lewis as The Scarecrow, Dana Cimone as Dorothy, and Alan Mingo Jr as The Wiz in the North American Tour of THE WIZ. Photo by Jeremy Daniel
Dorothy’s companions are equally compelling. Elijah Ahmad Lewis brings remarkable physicality, humor, and soul to the Scarecrow. D. Jerome’s Tin Man is richly expressive and emotionally resonant, while Cal Mitchell’s Cowardly Lion balances bold comedic timing with genuine vulnerability. Together, they display wonderful chemistry, laugh-out-loud humor, and effortless stage presence.<
Alan Mingo Jr. commands the stage as The Wiz, bringing authority, humor, and tremendous charisma to the role. Kyla Jade delivers a striking dual performance as Aunt Em and Evillene, displaying impressive range and intensity, while Sheherazade shines as Glinda with grace, precision, and a commanding presence.
The ensemble deserves outstanding praise. This is a cast that clearly understands The Wiz is about community, and that understanding is evident in every group number. Movement is precise, energetic, and visually captivating. The collective energy never wanes, and the performances were a joy to watch.
Musically, the production shines. The orchestra delivers an iconic score with power and clarity, captivating the audience. I still remember that classic album from the 1970s, and this show takes the music to a whole other level. I loved the present-day spin on so many beloved numbers like “Ease on Down the Road” and “Brand New Day,” while quieter moments land with emotional resonance. The music feels both nostalgic and timeless.
Visually, the production is striking. The set design is imaginative and transformative. Combined with vibrant, expressive costumes and dynamic lighting, the visual world of Oz feels immersive, and alive. I was truly transported, and the show seemed to fly by.
Watching The Wiz now, decades after meeting a teenage Stephanie Mills backstage, I am reminded of how enduring its magic truly is. Themes of self-belief, belonging, and resilience resonate as powerfully today as they did in 1975. Opening night carried a special electricity, shared by cast and audience alike. From beginning to end, this production is a soulful, joyous triumph — and I loved every minute of it.
— Janeane Bernstein, EdD, Host of Get the Funk Out! on KUCI 88.9 FM