Mark Horning — Theater Critic

Shaker Heights High School Alum Max Chernin is compelling as Leo Frank as his trust in the legal system is shaken to the core. Talia Suskauer as his wife Lucille shows a rare kind of fortitude standing up for her husband. Both have amazing singing voices that truly shine when they perform duets. Jack Roden as Prosecutor Frankie Epps does a fine turn as the conniving public servant bent on furthering his own career. Lastly, there is Ramone Nelson as Black Janitor Jim Conley who is tasked with two incredible show stopping solos.

You could feel the circus-like atmosphere and the excitement of the crowd in the National Theatre lobby before the opening curtain of The Wiz. The touring production more than delivered, and it showed the audience a “brand new day.” Schele Williams directed standout performances of the Tony Award–winning musical with its mix of rock, ’70s funk, gospel, soul, and a dash of hip-hop. The Wiz is what a musical is supposed to be.