BWW Reviews: The Black Rep's Funky and Fresh Production of THE WIZ

While I'm well acquainted with L. Frank Baum's classic tales of the land of Oz, and I've certainly seen numerous stage adaptations of his work, I'd never had the opportunity to see The Wiz, unless you count the 1978 film version (and I don't), until now. After viewing the Black Rep's splendid production I'm happy to report that it's a tune-filled spectacle that's brimming with color and movement. It has an Afrocentric, funky mid-1970's era vibe (book by William F. Brown, most of the music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls) that actually makes it seem more hip than you would expect.

The plot isn't really substantially different than most stage adaptations, however, a lot of the more elaborate effects have been replaced with dance and music that give the piece an entirely different look and feel. Of course, the fact that it's a full blown musical rather than just a show with music distinguishes it as well. And, there are a number of catchy, signature songs that grace this score including the bouncy "Ease On Down the Road", Evillene's blues workout "No Bad News", and the Luther Vandross composition "Everybody Rejoice (Brand New Day)". A more adult minded script combined with a positive message of believing in oneself creates a cool atmosphere that's captivating and compelling in familiar, but different, ways.

Sarah Stephens is vibrant as Dorothy, and when the music gives her a chance to really belt it out, like the closer, "Home", she really shines. Her friends on her journey back to Kansas are Ian Coulter-Buford, who's is sassy and flexible as the Scarecrow, Keith Tyrone as the helpful, but heartless, Tin Man, and Herman Gordon as the Cowardly Lion. All three do wonderful work. Linda Kennedy amuses as the flaky Good Witch of the North, Addaperle, and the luminescent Sophia Stephens is Glinda, the Good Witch of the South. Raphaelle Darden brings down the house as Evillene, and unfortunately, she's quickly dispatched. Cedric Neal is smooth and slick as The Wiz, gracing this stage with a strong voice and JAmes Brown moves. As Aunt Em, Nakischa Joseph opens the show with a powerful rendering of "The Feeling We Once Had". The talented supporting cast makes a vivid impression as well.

Director Ron Himes does a solid job, and though the pace lags a bit here and there, the show maintains an upbeat and lively quality. Dunsi Dai's scenic design is open and emerald tinted, with some banners near the ceiling offering a nice canvas for Sean Savoie's lighting and projections to set the scene. Cecil Slaughter's choreography is nicely realized, and so are the costume designs of Sarita Fellows. Music director Charles Creath (keyboard), along with William Ranier (bass), Dennis Brock (guitar), and Chris Boyd (drums), lays down a groove that sonically recreates the 1970's vibe.

The Black Rep's production of The Wiz is a funky good time, and well worth checking out. Catch it at the Grandel Theatre through June 30, 2013.