The famous tale of “The Wizard of Oz” has been a constant in theater and entertainment for more than a century. From the adventurous journey that Dorothy and her dog toto have after being swept by a tornado into the land known as “Oz”. To the goofy and distinct characters that she meets and befriends along the way, such as the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Cowardly Lion. To the Wicked Witch of the West who terrorizes Dorothy and her new friends as they travel on the yellow brick road. This story has always been an instant classic.
The first adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz” came as a 1900s children novel written by L. Frank Baum. From print to the 1939 movie produced by Metro-Goldyn-Mayer, which is still watched today, the tale of the Wizard of Oz has come a long way. Throughout the variety of interpretations and adaptations, this story has always entertained audiences.
And, now, with “The Wiz: Super Soul Musical,” coming to American River College, Oct. 11-27, students, faculty, family and friends will have the opportunity to experience the story of the Wizard of Oz through a different perspective.
Broadway’s “The Wiz: Super Soul Musical” is a show that celebrates the history of Black creativity and culture. The musical dates back to 1975 with a slightly more modernized twist than the original telling of “The Wizard of Oz”.
The musical will feature a live orchestra, music that will feature a variety of styles and tastes. The likes of gospel, rock, hip-hop and disco are going to be featured for the audience to enjoy.
Tara Mills is a part of the diverse 24-person cast of the show. She is an ensemble member playing a tornado, a kalidah, a citizen, a winkie, and a quading. Mills says this musical showcases the diversity in theater and to also promote the story of racial liberation.
“It is a unique and inspirational piece of work which allows a showcase of talent, especially in singing and dancing,” said Mills, in an email to The Current.
Mills has known the director of The Wiz musical Sam Williams for decades and had worked with Williams on several previous projects. His talent as a director has helped her decision to take part in the show.
“But when I heard he (Williams) was directing The Wiz, I knew it was going to be a special show and that I wanted to be a part of it,” Mills said.
Williams will also be teaming up with his daughter, Sarah Willaims. She will be taking the lead in the choreography in the musical.
Cast member Clinton Verge Jr. is another ensemble player featured as an assortment of characters from Head Winged Monkey of the Yellow Brick Road. Verge says the importance of the musical is to show interpretation of “The Wizard of Oz” through Black experience.
“Incorporating soulful music, black pride and culture along with the unfortunate experience of slavery,” said Verge in an email to The Current.
Verge decided to take part in the show because of his connection with the cast and his love for the musical.
“Every person in this show is talented and I’m very grateful to be a part of this cast and production,” Verge said.
Run time for the show is approximately two- and-a-half hours long. Audiences at ARC’s Theater will have the opportunity to experience the mix style of modern and classic with the same feel of “The Wizard of Oz”.
Tickets and schedule information are available here.
