The Wiz Brings Electrifying New Tour to National Theatre

Groundbreaking reimagining of The Wizard of Oz returns with soul, gospel, and funk.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:52pm

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An abstract close-up photograph featuring a dramatic, high-contrast composition of shimmering, glittering textures in vibrant colors, conveying the celebratory and glamorous essence of the musical production.The dazzling visuals and infectious score of The Wiz's new national tour bring the beloved musical to life with renewed energy and style.Washington Today

The iconic musical 'The Wiz' is back with a vibrant new national tour, bringing its signature blend of soul, gospel, funk, and storytelling to audiences at the National Theatre in Washington, D.C. from April 7-12. Directed by Schele Williams, with choreography by JaQuel Knight and additional material by Amber Ruffin, this latest production breathes new life into the beloved classic.

Why it matters

As a groundbreaking reimagining of 'The Wizard of Oz,' 'The Wiz' holds significant cultural weight and generational connection. The musical's return to the stage in this electrifying new tour allows audiences, especially young Black and brown viewers, to see themselves reflected in the story and characters.

The details

At the heart of the production is actor Alan Mingo Jr., who stars as The Wiz. Mingo has been part of previous versions of 'The Wiz' that never made it to Broadway, so this tour marks a milestone in his career. The show also features Nichelle Lewis as Dorothy, Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Cowardly Lion. The creative team has refined every element of the production, from choreography to pacing, to create a more polished and timeless feel while still honoring the original.

  • The Wiz national tour runs from April 7-12, 2026 at the National Theatre in Washington, D.C.
  • The production previously had a pre-Broadway run before arriving at the National Theatre.

The players

Schele Williams

The director of the new national tour of The Wiz.

JaQuel Knight

The choreographer for the new national tour of The Wiz.

Amber Ruffin

The writer who contributed additional material to the new national tour of The Wiz.

Alan Mingo Jr.

The actor starring as The Wiz in the new national tour, a role he has pursued for years.

Wayne Brady

An entertainer who previously shared the role of The Wiz with Alan Mingo Jr.

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What they’re saying

“For an actor, sometimes there's a show that keeps coming back around. I had actually been part of two other versions of 'The Wiz' that never made it to Broadway. So when this one came along, I was excited—but also a little cautious.”

— Alan Mingo Jr., Actor playing The Wiz

“I grew up loving the movie version as a kid. So to now be part of a production that finally made it to Broadway—it feels surreal.”

— Alan Mingo Jr., Actor playing The Wiz

“One of the things I discovered during the pre-Broadway run was how personal this show is for people. Everyone had a story: who introduced them to it, when they first saw it and who they're bringing now.”

— Alan Mingo Jr., Actor playing The Wiz

“This role meant something special. I wanted to take it across the country. I wanted kids—especially little Black and brown kids—to see themselves in this story and know that I was their Wiz.”

— Alan Mingo Jr., Actor playing The Wiz

What’s next

Tickets for the National Theatre run of The Wiz national tour are on sale now at www.broadwayatthenational.com.

The takeaway

The return of The Wiz in this vibrant new national tour not only brings a beloved classic to life but also celebrates the enduring power of live theater, the importance of representation, and the ability of music and storytelling to connect generations.