Review: A Soulful Journey Home: The Wiz Captured Hearts in Philadelphia

“The Wiz,” presented as part of the Ensemble Arts Philly Broadway Series, wrapped its run in Philadelphia on June 15 — and what a ride it was! From start to finish, the production delivered an electrifying performance that had the audience hanging on every word, note, and dazzling moment.

Taking on the iconic role of Dorothy, Dana Cimone, hailing from Atlanta, gave a heartfelt and passionate performance that made us believe. With sincerity and strength, she dedicated her performance to her family, the unwavering support of her mother, and to every young dreamer touched by the power of storytelling. Her voice soared, and her emotion was raw and real — she was Dorothy.

While all of the actors delivered stellar performances, Elijah Ahmad Lewis/EAL the multi-award winning artist was a true scene stealer bringing the Scarecrow to life with incredible charm and charisma. He honored the classic character while adding his own flair, capturing the Scarecrow’s humor and heart with impeccable timing and playful wit. Every time he hit the stage, the audience lit up with laughter and joy.

The music was nothing short of rousing — a vibrant mix of soul, funk, gospel, and pure Broadway brilliance that had everyone clapping, singing, and stomping along. Every beat was a celebration, and the crowd, packed with families and theater lovers of all ages, was completely swept away.

From the powerhouse cast to the stunning set design and live orchestra, everything about this production was electric. The costumes exploded with bold colors and creative detail, bringing Oz to life in ways that were visually captivating and culturally rich. The design team deserves high praise for creating a world that was both magical and modern.

The Wiz in Philadelphia was more than a show — it was an experience. Captivating, invigorating, and enchanting, it reminded us all of the joy, hope, and soul that lives at the heart of this timeless story.

For more on the exciting programing at Ensemble Arts Philly click on www.Ensembleartsphilly.com.

The wiz is currently on its North American tour with several upcoming stops. Visit the official website wizmusical.com for specific dates and venues.