"I have the amazing opportunity to be part of the 2026–2027 Broadway National Touring Cast of The Wiz! For those who may not know, The Wiz is a reimagining of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. It premiered in Baltimore in 1974 before making its Broadway debut in 1975. The show received lots of love and won several Tony Awards, becoming especially significant within the Black community because of the culture, representation, and musical style it brings to the stage. Over time, its popularity led to a television musical special and a film adaptation that many people are familiar with today. Fast-forward to 2024, The Wiz was revived and returned to Broadway that spring. I feel incredibly honored to be part of this production and contribute to the legacy it holds. The creative team has done a wonderful job of preserving the original dialogue, culture, and, most notably, the music, while bringing a new fresh and powerful energy to the show. It was a pleasure working under the direction of Schele Williams and Alan Mingo Jr. as they guided us through this process. Ashley Seldon also made learning so much choreography in such a short amount of time feel seamless. I also have to shout out our music director and orchestrator, Joseph Joubert, because the vocals in this production are absolutely incredible! The Wiz is a show filled with joy, heart, resilience, and powerful music, and I think audiences will leave feeling uplifted and reminded of the importance of believing in themselves and the people around them. I’m just grateful to be part of a production that celebrates so much history, culture, and community, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic of The Wiz!"

 

What inspired you to particapate in the tour?

"One of my goals after graduating from Wichita State University was to book a national tour. I didn’t know if or when that goal would become a reality, but the audition opportunity for The Wiz came along at just the right time. I think I felt especially compelled to pursue this show because of my personal history with it. During my first year at Wichita State, I was cast in my first professional production at a regional theater, and that show just so happened to be The Wiz! That experience left a lasting impression on me, and it was when I began to realize that performing was truly what I wanted to do with my life. Being able to return to this show in such a different capacity feels full circle. What started as one of my first professional experiences has now become an opportunity to tour nationally and continue growing in the career I’ve always envisioned for myself. It makes this experience that much more meaningful."

 

How do you feel this experience will contribute to your professional or personal growth?

"I try to approach every show as an opportunity to learn something new about myself, my craft, and my process. The Wiz has given me so much room to play, explore, and grow as an actor. I’m covering both Dorothy and Glinda while also performing in the ensemble, so stepping into each role with its own motivations, personality, and perspective has been both challenging and exciting! One of my biggest takeaways from this experience has been the physical demand of the show. The Wiz is such a dance-heavy production which is good for me because I’m always looking for ways to elevate my dance skills. This show has helped me tremendously in that area while also pushing me to build my stamina and maintain my physical capabilities throughout the tour. Beyond the physical growth, performing eight shows a week has challenged me to become more intentional about my process. I’m learning how to prepare consistently, take care of myself, and make space for my own needs while still showing up fully for the work. It’s teaching me the importance of balancing discipline with self-care, especially in such a demanding industry. Overall, I know this experience is helping me become a more versatile, well-rounded performer while also teaching me more about who I am both onstage and off."
 

Any words of advice you'd like to give to current students?

"I want students to know that anything is possible and that you really can achieve anything you put your mind to, even things you never thought could happen for you. Keep perfecting your craft, even when you’re not in a show or actively doing theatre. Always find ways to grow and improve, and most importantly, believe in yourself to the fullest. At the end of the day, you have to believe in yourself and your abilities in order to succeed. Stay consistent, keep working toward your goals, and trust that what you’re working for is possible!"