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The classic play turned film “The Wiz” will be making another debut as a live musical. NBC announced Monday that they will feature the Broadway musical as their next live broadcasted production. The network plans to add a Cirque du Soleil spin to the timeless production.

“The Wiz” is an urban spin on “The Wizard of Oz” telling the story of a girl in Harlem named Dorothy. The story hit the stage in 1975 featuring multitalented star Stephanie Mills who went on to win a Tony award for the role. The play was turned into a star-studded movie in 1978.  The story was brought to life on screen with the help of renowned stars Diana Ross who played the main character Dorothy. Michael Jackson joined the cast as the Scarecrow along with Nipsey Russell as the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion played by Ted Ross.  

It should be interesting to see how NBC adds their own twist with a fresh new cast. Hopefully they will bring out some up and coming stars like Yaya DaCosta who recently played Whitney Houston in the biopic film “Whitney”. Or maybe they will utilize stars that have already made a name for themselves like Tyler James Williams, best known for his role as Chris in the TV series “Everybody Hates Chris”. Be sure to tune in live on Thursday, December 3, 2015 on NBC to see.

-Dominique Battle