From the Deep South to Whimsical Wizardry

Online, October 6, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Known to audiences nation-wide, "The Wiz," which retells L. Frank Baum's beloved story "The Wizard of Oz" in the context of African-American culture, will feature Victor Simonson as Conductor and Music Director. Best known for his piano playing in every genre from Mozart to Motown, Simonson is not new to world renowned musicial performances. The virtuoso began as pianist and Interium Conductor with the Boys Choir of Harlem, moved on to music direct Three Mo' Tenors, and has since joined the ranks of Broadway shows including "The Color Purple" where he served as Associate Conductor and "Brooklyn; The Musicial" as Music Director. He is now transformed to a "wiz" in the pit.

Audiences can see Simonson at the CenterStage in Baltimore where the extravaganza opens in October and continues through November. For the show, Baltimore is where it all started, where it had its first production in 1974. The show went on to Broadway winning seven Tony Awards. Follow Simonson as he conducts the orchestra, along with Dorothy and her friends as they ease on down the Yellow Brick Road, confront Evillene and her menacing monkeys, and awaken Oz to a brand new day. For tickets visit http://www.centerstage.org.