Stephanie Mills Recalls Harsh Criticism for Playing Dorothy in The Wiz
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Stephanie Mills, the renowned singer, reminisces about the intense backlash she faced when she took on the role of Dorothy in the original Broadway production of ‘The Wiz.’ Mills delves into the challenging reactions she received during a vintage clip featured in the new documentary ‘It’s Dorothy!’
The documentary ‘It’s Dorothy!’ commemorates 125 years of The Wizard of Oz and its beloved protagonist. The novel ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ by Frank L. Baum made its debut on May 17, 1925, and since then, iconic actresses like Judy Garland, Diana Ross, and Stephanie Mills have portrayed Dorothy across various adaptations.
A multitude of talented performers, including famous names like Judy Garland, Diana Ross, Stephanie Mills, Fairuza Balk, Ashanti, Nichelle Lewis, and Amber Riley, have brought the character of Dorothy Gale to life over the years. The documentary explores the cultural impact of Dorothy and the actresses who have embodied this timeless character.
Directed by Jeffrey McHale, ‘It’s Dorothy!’ premieres at the Tribeca Festival and features interviews with Ashanti, Fairuza Balk, Lena Waithe, Rufus Wainwright, Margaret Cho, John Waters, and several other notable personalities. McHale expresses how Dorothy’s story resonates with individuals who feel like outsiders and emphasizes the importance of curiosity and empathy in navigating life’s challenges.
The portrayal of Dorothy by Judy Garland in the 1939 classic, ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ remains an enduring symbol of resilience and hope. When ‘The Wiz’ made its Broadway debut in 1975, it offered a fresh perspective with a Black teenage Dorothy at its center. Ken Harper, the producer of the original musical, highlights the significance of representation and identity in the narrative.
Stephanie Mills, who was only 17 when she originated the role of Dorothy in ‘The Wiz’ on Broadway, faced a mixed reception from critics despite the production’s success. In a candid 1975 interview featured in the documentary, Mills reflects on the challenges of adapting to the demands of a Broadway musical without formal training in singing or dancing.
Despite facing harsh criticisms, including being labeled as ‘too short’ and ‘ugly,’ Mills persevered and went on to achieve great success in both pop and R&B music. She soared on the charts with hits like “Never Knew Love Like This Before” and a studio recording of ‘Home,’ a beloved song from ‘The Wiz’ that resonated with audiences.
Diana Ross later took on the role of Dorothy in the 1977 film adaptation of ‘The Wiz,’ despite being older than the character’s teenage depiction. The film featured an ensemble cast, with Michael Jackson portraying The Scarecrow, yet it faced challenges at the box office. Despite this, both Mills and Ross have left an indelible mark on the legacy of Dorothy and ‘The Wiz.’
As the legacy of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ endures through various adaptations and productions, the spirit of Dorothy lives on. The enduring appeal of the story and its characters continues to captivate audiences, showcasing the timeless themes of courage, identity, and resilience that resonate with viewers of all ages.
In conclusion, Stephanie Mills’ recollection of the criticism she faced as Dorothy in ‘The Wiz’ serves as a testament to her resilience and talent. Her journey, along with the portrayals of Dorothy by other actresses, highlights the enduring magic of a character who symbolizes hope, courage, and the power of self-discovery.