Hope Mill Theatre will stage the first new UK professional production of The Wiz in 10 years this Christmas.
The Wiz is an all-Black retelling of L Frank Baum’s classic children's novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, first seen on stage in 1974 but popularised in a movie version starring Michael Jackson and Diana Ross.
The new production (Nov 24-Jan 16) will be directed by Actors Touring Theatre’s artistic director and one-time Manchester Royal Exchange associate Matthew Xia. Tickets will go on sale later in the year.
Matthew Xia said: “I can’t wait to return to Manchester to create the all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza that is The Wiz.
"We're pulling together an outstanding team to reimagine this classic funk, soul – and now afrobeat-infused – story of self-discovery, determination and Black joy."
The 1975 Broadway production won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It has since had revivals in New York, London, San Diego, and the Netherlands.
The full creative team and casting will be announced later.
More information here