The Wiz

Coming off the heels of a phenomenally successful revival in Europe, the JPAC will bring this beloved Broadway classic to the Chicago land area. Dorothy’s adventure in the Land of Oz is set to a rock, gospel and soul music in this fanciful and charming re-telling of the classic tale by L. Frank Baum.
Leading the cast in the pivotal role of Dorothy is 17 year old Ava Gardner (Crete). Mike Ford (Chicago), Mike Jones (Chicago) and Wayde Mathews (Chicago) play her famous friends the Scarecrow, Tinman and Lion, respectively. Erick David Townsend (Chicago) plays the charismatic title role of the Wiz, and A. Nikki Greenlee (Chicago) plays the wicked witch, Evillene. The roles of the two good witches, Addaperle and Glinda, are Monique Desiree (Wheaton) and Amanda Zaeske (Aurora).

Artistic Director Dante J. Orfei (Riverside) promises a "visual feast." Artistic Staff includes Choreographer Jennifer Cupani (Schaumburg), Technical Director Michael Nedza (Riverside) and Costume Designer Aliceson Hackett-Rubel (Cary).

Also included are ensemble members Carissa Gouskos (Carol Stream), Reneisha Jenkins (Orland Park), Jim La Pietra (Berwyn), Lanie Pahos (Hinsdale), Jazmine Reynolds (Oak Park), Bequita Sipla (Naperville), Amanda Squibb (Chicago Ridge), Afra Williams (Forest Park), Jerel Brown, Harrison Lubel, A.J. Calbert, Allison Orobia, and Paul M. Jackson all of Chicago.