“While based on ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ ‘The Wiz’ isn’t the same thing. The language, rhythms, harmonies and beauty of the Black community make this a different story. It is a celebration of resilience, imagination and hope,” said Ansley Valentine, Roe Green Visiting Director, who working on this year’s School of Theatre production of “The Wiz.”
A beloved Broadway gem, “The Wiz” infuses L. Frank Baum’s “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” with a dazzling mix of rock, gospel and soul music. This timeless tale of Dorothy’s adventures through the Land of Oz is a fun, family-friendly, modern musical and will showcase the hard work and dedication of students across the School of Theatre and Dance, from actors to production design, including lighting, sound, costumes and props.
The School of Theatre and Dance proudly presents its Main Stage Season each year as a primary learning environment for students and for the entertainment of the broader Kent State community.
“Bringing ‘The Wiz’ to life on our stage is more than just a performance – it’s a celebration of creativity, culture, collaboration and Black joy. This musical challenges our students to grow while embracing the powerful storytelling that has inspired generations. Musicals like ‘The Wiz’ are vital to our students’ education because they foster confidence, teamwork, discipline and emotional expression – skills that extend far beyond the stage. It’s an opportunity for them to push their artistic boundaries, connect with their peers and share a story that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. The School of Theatre and Dance chose this show as it was one of the more popular choices in our season selection process from the students, faculty and staff. With the generous support of Dr. Roe Green, we were able to bring in Ansley Valentine as the Roe Green Visiting Director for this production,” said Tony Hardin, director of the School of Theatre and Dance at Kent State.
The Roe Green Visiting Director Series was established in 2003 following a $25,000 donation, to be repeated annually, from local arts patron and activist Roe Green. Through the program, the School of Theatre and Dance invites a guest professional director each year to work in residency with students and direct one of the School’s Main Stage productions.
This year’s Roe Green Visting Director is Ansley Valentine, a professional director and actor for the theatre and musical theatre and an educator with experience teaching at the collegiate level and in both public and private performing arts high schools. Valentine is currently a proud member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society and Actors Equity Association. His work as a director and actor has been seen at the Cleveland Play House, Florida Rep, Indiana Rep, Ohio Shakespeare Festival, Studio Arena Theatre, Phoenix Theatre, Cardinal Stage and many other theatres around the country.
Ansley ValentineThis journey has been one of incredible joy, and we’ve leaned into that joy – the essence of Black culture that beats at the heart of this familiar story.”
Book By William F. Brown
Music and Lyrics By Charlie Smalls
From the story “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum
Directed by Ansley Valentine,
2024-2025 Roe Green Visiting Director
Choreography by Dominic Moore-Dunson
Music Direction by Jonathan Swoboda