Schele Williams Brings Legacy and Black Culture to Broadway with “The Wiz” Revival
Schele Williams is directing a revival of “The Wiz” on Broadway, which will open on April 17, 2024.
Williams is the first Black woman in 50 years to direct a musical on Broadway, with “The Notebook” earlier in the season.
Williams wanted to make “The Wiz” timeless and ensure that Dorothy is the first person to sing in the show.
The creative team includes choreographer JaQuel Knight, costume designer Sharen Davis, musician Adam Blackstone, and production designer Hannah Beachler.
Beachler’s minimalist set design aims to emphasize humanity and provide space for dancers, with a focus on real singers and dancers in the show.
The set features elements of Black culture and history, with symbols from the Civil Rights Movement and the Underground Railroad incorporated into the design.