There’s a new star in town, and on stage! Broadway newcomer Nichelle Lewis will star as “Dorothy” and lead the cast of the musical, “The Wiz” in the national tour this fall. She’ll be on the road until the musical returns to Broadway (with Wayne Brady as “The Wiz”) in the Spring of 2024. The show’s beautiful mix of ballet, jazz, and modern pop will have audiences moving and grooving down the all-new yellow brick road. 

We spoke with Nichelle about her role of a lifetime!

Learn more about The Wiz at: wizmusical.com. Follow Nichelle on Instagram and TikTok at: @iamnichellelewis.com

Tell us about your childhood. Were you always musical?

I was always very musical. Growing up, my parents played a wide range of music in the house. I was also in the choir at my church. My Aunt played the piano there and I did often find myself singing random songs I made up in my head. However, even though much of my life felt and was surrounded by music, I didn’t really get interested in singing until I was about 9 or ten years old. 

As a child, what were some of your favorite plays or musicals?

One of my favorite musicals as a child was Beauty and the Beast. I just thought it felt so beautiful and magical. I also really loved The Lion King. I love animals so it was everything to me. Plus all the songs were bops. 

You were "discovered" via TikTok. Should anyone interested in a theatre career create a social media account?

I’d say it’s worth a try, but if you feel it’s not for you, then that’s ok too! 

Where were you when you learned you got the role of ‘Dorothy’?

I was in my bedroom in NYC, trying not to panic about my audition because I thought I had messed it up so bad. My agent called me and was like “Wake up, because you’re gonna be Dorothy in The Wiz!”

Were you a fan of the musical previously? 

Absolutely! I knew about it growing up but I fell in love with it in college. I was told to sing “Home.” Before I did, I wanted to make sure that I knew about my character and did my research. So, I found the version of The Wiz with Stephanie Mills as Dorothy and watched it. It made me feel excited and proud of the journey I was on and I felt even more determined. If something can make you feel that way, that’s how you know it’s good. 

What makes The Wiz itself different from the traditional movie/story of The Wizard of Oz?

I’ve always loved both. The Wiz is just so refreshing. It’s a huge part of black culture and it involves so many different styles of music and art. 

What's your secret for keeping your voice clear and stage ready?

I keep a huge water jug with me at all times and I warm up and cool down every day. Other than that, I try to just be aware of how my voice is feeling. 

Share your packing and travel hacks!

I’m beyond excited to be on tour with the show. I love this cast and the creative team and I’m so grateful for everyone. Also, my cast members will tell you, “Nichelle loves her candle warmer” – I’m constantly talking about it. So if I can give you any hack, it’s that. You can carry it everywhere, it smells amazing, and it just makes a hotel room feel more homey. 

Best career advice you've ever received?

Everyone’s a crockpot. It will happen, just keep cooking. There’s no rush.