“EASE ON DOWN” TO THE KALEIDOSCOPE

A BRAND NEW PRODUCTION OF THE WIZ, THE SUPER SOUL “WIZARD OF OZ,” COMES TO HOUSTON

HOUSTON (May, 2015) – The Wiz, based on L. Frank Baum’s book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” is one of the most riveting incarnations of this classic tale ever created. With music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls, and music by William F. Brown, the beloved story of Dorothy and her friends opened on Broadway in 1975, and won seven Tony Awards (including “Best Musical”). The Wiz was made even more popular by its 1978 film adaptation, starring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. Bayou City Theatrics reimagines this soulful musical adaptation with breathtaking visuals, radio-worthy vocal performances and a whopping dose of energetic choreography! Bayou City Theatrics’ new production of The Wiz, runs May 15 to May 31, at The Kaleidoscope.

        Just as Auntie Em (Agnes “Aggie B” Balka) reminds young Dorothy (Hannah Morgen) that drifting through life in a daydream will not help her grow up, their Kansas farm is overtaken by a massive tornado, sweeping Dorothy up in its furious winds. Upon opening her eyes, the young girl finds herself in the fantastical Land of Oz and is greeted by the Munchkins and Addaperle, the Good Witch of the North (Ashlee Zoch). Dorothy’s house has landed on top of the evil Witch of the East, freeing the Munchkins from slavery, so Addaperle gives Dorothy her magic silver slippers and sends her on a journey down the yellow brick road. Dorothy begins her search for the great and powerful Wiz (Josh Green), the wizard-ruler of Oz, who she believes will send her back home to Kansas. Along the way, she meets a brainless Scarecrow (Gia Ochsenbein), a Tin Man (Colton Berry) who is in dire need of a heart, and a cowardly Lion (Laz Estrada). The four new friends “Ease on Down the Road” to meet the Wiz, in hopes that he may be able to grant their wishes, but not without plenty of interference from the Wicked Witch of the West, Evillene (Whitney Zangarine), who covets Dorothy’s newly inherited silver slippers. 

This beloved fairytale adventure is brought to life by a stellar cast featuring Melanie Burke (Glinda), Tyler Galindo (Gatekeeper), Ryan Frenk (Lord High Underling), Taylor McWhorter (Flying Monkey) and a powerhouse ensemble including Laura Althaus, Christina Bechtel, Maya Credeur, Alex Domingue, Reagan Ezer, Ashley Frye, Reagan Jones, Michelle Mayo and Victoria Riley. In additional to its incredible cast, an innovative production design takes a modern look at this 70’s classic, creating a magical, never-before-seen experience for Houston audiences.

        The Wiz is directed and designed by Colton Berry, with music direction by Jane Volke and choreography by Luke Hamilton. The production runs May 15 through May 31, with Friday and Saturday performances at 8:00 p.m., Sundays at 5:00 p.m. And a special 3:00 p.m. Matinee on Saturday, May 23. Bayou City Theatrics’ downtown theatre, The Kaleidoscope, is located at 705 Main Street, Suite B (entrance facing Capitol Street). Tickets are available for purchase ($35-$40) at www.BayouCityTheatrics.com, or by calling the Box Office 832.817.8656. Tickets are available at the door, although BCT encourages purchasing tickets in advance to secure seating in their intimate venue. Convenient cash parking is located less than one block away at the corner of Capitol & Fannin, in the SAKS’ garage.