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“The Wiz” is easing back into Washington with a newly refined national tour, bringing its mix of soul, gospel, funk and vibrant storytelling to the National Theatre from April 7–12.

Directed by Schele Williams, choreographed by JaQuel Knight and featuring additional material by Amber Ruffin, the production updates the groundbreaking reimagining of “The Wizard of Oz” while honoring its roots.

Alan Mingo Jr. leads the cast as The Wiz, completing a journey that followed two previous versions of the musical that never reached Broadway. Although those near-misses made him cautious about joining another production, this revival successfully landed on Broadway before heading across the country.

The achievement also carries personal meaning for Mingo, who grew up loving the movie adaptation. He originally shared the role with longtime friend and collaborator Wayne Brady, turning the production into both a career milestone and a reunion.

Mingo said he discovered during the pre-Broadway run that many audience members have deeply personal connections to the musical. People frequently told him about the relatives who introduced them to “The Wiz” and how they were now sharing it with their own children.

That generational pull helped persuade him to remain with the show for its national tour. He particularly wanted Black and brown children around the country to see themselves represented in the story—and to see him as their Wiz.

The touring production has continued to evolve since its earlier performances. Mingo said the creative team refined everything from choreography to pacing, leaving the show more polished and assured than it was while still being shaped before Broadway.

The revival also sheds some of the slang tied closely to the original production’s 1970s setting. Its creators sought a more timeless approach that preserves the musical’s identity while making it accessible to contemporary audiences.

This is Mingo’s sixth national tour, but he said arriving in a different city every week or two still creates the excitement of another opening night. Each stop brings a distinct atmosphere and a new audience response, along with opportunities to visit places and meet people he might not otherwise encounter.

For Mingo, the show’s journey is about more than Dorothy’s trip down the yellow brick road. He hopes this production becomes a lasting memory for theatergoers and carries forward the musical’s celebration of identity, community and representation.

The cast 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.