Full creative team & open auditions announced for THE WIZ at Hope Mill Theatre

Photo credit: Dujonna Gift- Simms

Hope Mill Theatre, in association with Ameena Hamid Productions, has announced its full creative team for The Wiz, along with details of open auditions being held in London and Manchester.

This marks the first new UK production of The Wiz in 10 years, and will run from 24 November 2021 to 16 January 2022.

After Dorothy gets swept up in a tornado, she finds herself in the fantastical world of Oz. There, she makes new friends, battles evil witches, and seeks the aid of the all-powerful and mysterious Wiz. Ultimately, Dorothy finds that, if you believe with all your heart, you can always find your way home. With an infectious soul score, dynamic numbers, and endearing cast of characters, The Wiz is a joyous explosion of music, dance, magic, and heart to delight audience members of all ages.

Open auditions are being held in London on Saturday 19 June and in Manchester on Saturday 26 June. To apply, email auditions@hopemilltheatre.co.uk. Hope Mill Theatre is committed to fair and inclusive casting and to ensuring the rich diversity within our society is represented on its stage. Submissions from Trans and Non Gender Conforming Actors are encouraged as producers recognise they are under-represented in the industry at this level.

The Wiz will be directed by Actors Touring Company’s Artistic Director and previous Royal Exchange Associate Artistic Director Matthew Xia, with musical supervision and orchestrations by Sean Green and choreography by Leah Hill.

The show will have design by Simon Kenny, lighting by Simisola Majekodunmi and sound by Tony Gayle.

Director Matthew Xia said: “I can’t wait to return to Manchester, my former home, to create the all singing all dancing extravaganza that is The Wiz at the exceptional Hope Mill Theatre. We're pulling together an outstanding team including musical supervisor Sean Green and choreographer Leah Hill to reimagine this classic funk, soul (and now afrobeat!) infused story of self-discovery, determination and Black joy. Everybody rejoice!

For more information and to book tickets, please click here.