Despite the historical significance and ambitious revival of “The Wiz” at the Cadillac Palace Theatre, the production unfortunately falls short of its illustrious legacy. While the musical, a groundbreaking reimagining of “The Wizard of Oz,” has always been known for its soulful score and vibrant storytelling, this iteration struggles to recapture the original’s magic.

The set design, an integral part of any theatrical production, particularly disappoints. Lacking both imagination and technical finesse, it fails to transport the audience to the whimsical world of Oz. This deficiency is a glaring misstep, considering the show’s innovative and visually captivating staging history.

Armed with powerful voices, the cast delivers the musical numbers with commendable energy and vocal prowess. However, their performances are undermined by a lack of cohesive storytelling. The narrative, essential in tying the songs and dance numbers together, feels disjointed. This shortcoming prevents the audience from fully engaging with the characters’ journeys and dilutes the story’s emotional impact.

In Summary, while “The Wiz” in Chicago showcases commendable vocal talent, it is marred by inadequate set design and storytelling. This production earns a modest 1.75 out of 4 stars, a rating that reflects its unfulfilled potential rather than its historical significance and the talent of its performers. It was a lackluster production and not worthy of being picked in Main Broadway.

The Wiz

Playing at: Cadillac Palace Theatre
Dates: Nov 28–Dec 10, 2023
Runtime: 2 hours and 25 minutes, including an intermission
Age Recommendations: 8+
Tickets: https://www.broadwayinchicago.com/shows/the-wiz/

Tidbits: “The Wiz,” as a contemporary reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s “The Wizard of Oz” carries with it a rich history. Baum’s original 1900 novel was a pioneering work of American children’s literature, blending fantasy and reality in a groundbreaking way. The story’s journey from page to stage and screen includes the iconic 1939 MGM film, remembered for its technicolor and songs. “The Wiz” emerged in the 1970s as a bold, African-American adaptation of Baum’s tale, transforming the narrative with its soulful music and a distinctly urban twist. This historical context highlights the cultural significance of “The Wiz” and underscores the missed opportunities in the Chicago production to honor and capitalize on this storied legacy fully.