This iconic show has been on the wishlist of the performers at WISH forever.  It wasn't until Mr. Leggett could offer his choreography that the show could become a reality for us.  Many associate THE WIZ with the film starring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson but this show evolved through  multiple interpretations gracing Broadway many times since the 1974 original production.  

I knew that I had the leads for the show but it requires a strong ensemble to bring it to a true production. My many thanks to those who stepped up to take on the multiple roles required as we could not do this show with you.  

The WISH Academy Visual and Performing Arts program is a team of artists: our Grammy winning music director, Markus Illko, award winning animator Kellie B Cooper and theatre director, Janet Landon.  Most of the students seen in this production of THE WIZ study under all three of these teachers and some even play sports!  The team collaborates and supports each other as we nourish the talent in our care to become skilled, collaborative artists.  We are often joined by artist parents like Jana Koppula, musical director of the musicals, Aryn Youngless on set design and musician Raj Makwana.  WISH is a team experience at every tier.

This is our third musical having launched in 2023 with an original jukebox musical celebrating Women's History called Dream Big.  Last year we stepped INTO THE WOODS. We are grateful that Kentwood Players are sharing their beautiful home and generous team with us as we take on THE WIZ.