The Wiz Enchants Fort Worth for Its 50th Anniversary

For the first time, Fort Worth welcomes the Broadway classic "The Wiz," coinciding with a significant milestone: its 50th anniversary. This beloved musical, which first graced Broadway in 1975, reimagines the timeless tale of "The Wizard of Oz" with a contemporary flair.

"This show is the star," remarked Elijah Ahmad Lewis, who embodies the Scarecrow. "Fifty years in the game? That speaks volumes." The production aims to resonate with modern audiences while retaining the essence of its original narrative.

Lewis elaborated on the show's evolution, stating, "We’ve woven in elements from today’s culture to make it relevant." Despite these updates, the core message remains intact.

"At its heart, it's about finding your way home," Lewis explained. "The underlying theme is about self-discovery and realizing that home is where your heart truly lies."

Cal Mitchell, portraying the Lion, reminisced about his childhood obsession with the film adaptation of "The Wiz." "We wore that VHS out! I mean, out!" he exclaimed. "It’s wild to think about the connection I had with this story without even knowing it back then."

Lewis emphasized that the Scarecrow's journey is universally relatable. "He believed he lacked a brain because someone told him so, yet he had it all along. That’s a struggle we all face," he noted.

Performing in Fort Worth for the first time during this anniversary feels especially poignant for both actors. They encourage audiences to experience the show as a refreshing escape from the Texas heat.