The Tony Award®-winning musical that redefined Broadway returns to the stage, bringing its unique blend of soul, gospel, rock and 70s funk back to the spotlight.
The Wiz, a modern twist on The Wizard of Oz, will electrify audiences at The Hobby Center from April 29 to May 4, 2025, as part of the Memorial Hermann Broadway at the Hobby Center series. This magical production promises to deliver an unforgettable experience with a vibrant mix of ballet, jazz, modern pop, and an ensemble of dazzling performances.
A timeless tale with a fresh twist
The Wiz takes the classic tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her way home and infuses it with a uniquely Black cultural lens. From its iconic score to its stunning choreography and visionary set designs, this revival is a dynamic celebration of community, empowerment and the discovery of one’s inner strength.
The Defender talked with Amitria Fanae, who is making her mark in this iconic production. As a talented performer, she plays the role of the Good Witch of the North, also known as AddaPearl, bringing her own flair and energy to a role that’s part fierce fashionista, part wisdom-giver. She describes the production as a fresh, exciting twist on a beloved classic.
“The story of The Wiz is timeless,” she said. “It’s about four people finding their way through life, looking for help for the very thing they already had embodied in them. They just didn’t know they needed the journey to help them find what was already inside of them. Sometimes, when you do it for yourself, it just feels so much better to know you can.”
This is a sentiment that resonates throughout the show. The characters—Dorothy, the Tinman, the Lion and the Scarecrow—are each on their journey of self-discovery. They think they need something external to fulfill them, but they ultimately learn that everything they need was inside them all along.
Fanae elaborated on her role as AddaPearl, the Good Witch of the North, saying, “AddaPearl is funky, well-dressed and knows how to get a word through to the people. She eulogizes her sister, Evillene, at the start of the play and her presence in the show adds that touch of wisdom and style that’s both powerful and fun.”
A production for all ages
This revival of The Wiz is truly a spectacle for all ages, a colorful and dynamic journey that appeals to everyone from five to 99 years old.
“This show has something for everyone,” said Fanae. “It takes you around the world—New Orleans, New York City clubs—and it plays homage to Black culture. It’s transformative, magical and offers an entirely new experience that audiences didn’t know they needed.”
The production showcases a range of musical influences, from the iconic “Ease on Down the Road” to “Home,” which has become a classic in its own right. The score, composed by Charlie Smalls and infused with additional material by Amber Ruffin, takes audiences on a thrilling ride through a world full of rhythm, heart and soul.
Bringing legacy to life
For Fanae, stepping into a role in The Wiz was a challenge she welcomed with open arms. “When something is done great, you can’t come into it halfway. You must bring your best,” she said. “I wasn’t intimidated, but I wanted to make my ancestors proud. I wanted to make myself proud and honor the people who played these roles before me.”
As one of the many actors who will help breathe new life into this beloved musical, Fanae is excited to be part of a legacy that’s so deeply ingrained in both Broadway history and Black cultural identity. “I’m coming into a legacy of melanated magical theatricals,” she said, smiling. “It’s a big responsibility, but one I’m so honored to carry forward.”
With its stunning choreography, powerful performances and unforgettable music, The Wiz is more than just a show—it’s an experience. Fanae invites Houston audiences to come out and witness this revitalized production for themselves.
“Why should people come out? Because you’ve never seen The Wiz—or The Wizard of Oz—this way. It’s new, exciting, and captivating. You’ll go home singing, feeling inspired and knowing that you can take on anything you put your mind and heart to.”
The production’s powerhouse design team includes the visionary work of scenic designer Hannah Beachler (Academy Award®-winning Black Panther), costume designer Sharen Davis (two-time Academy Award® nominee for Ray and Dreamgirls), and choreographer JaQuel Knight (who worked on Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies”). With this dream team behind the scenes, it’s no surprise that The Wiz promises a high-energy, eye-popping experience like no other.
A blockbuster hit
In its first week of Broadway performances, The Wiz earned an impressive $1.48 million, quickly becoming one of the highest-grossing shows of the season. This impressive start didn’t slow down in week two, with the show continuing to rake in strong box office numbers.
“We have just published our grosses and came in very high again, allowing us to remain in the million-dollar club,” exclaims Kandi Burruss, one of the producers of the show, known for her work as a Grammy Award-winning songwriter and TV personality.
Burruss credits much of The Wiz‘s financial success to the power of its re-imagined story and the undeniable impact of its iconic music and performances.
The financial success The Wiz is experiencing is based on the power of the story and our re-imagined version.
Kandi Burris, Producer, The Wiz
“The financial success The Wiz is experiencing is based on the power of the story and our re-imagined version,” she shares. “We were hoping the response would be the same on Broadway as it was on the road. Pleased to say it is.”
Before its Broadway debut in late April 2024, The Wiz had already captured audiences nationwide during its successful national tour. Burruss, who has also been nominated for a 2024 Southeast Emmy, attributes a large part of the show’s success to the fiercely loyal fanbase that has followed the production every step.
“Audiences are attending in droves and returning two, four, and sometimes five times over to experience the show,” Burruss adds excitedly. “We have had fans follow the show on the road to Broadway.”
The Wiz live at The Hobby Center
April 29 to May 4, 2025
Tickets start at just $40, and performances are scheduled throughout the week, including evening and matinee shows.
