The Wiz

The Muny hasn't produced The Wiz since 1982, and the country has changed dramatically in that time. Fortunately the show is flexible enough to allow for contemporary references and contextual updates, so it remains fresh. The Muny brought in the great Amber Ruffin (the first black woman to write for late-night TV, for Late Night with Seth Meyers) to add some modern touches to the show, and she knows what's going on — just watch her episode of Drunk History for proof. But don't worry: All the classic songs are intact, with "Ease on Down the Road" and "Everybody Rejoice/A Brand New Day" as catchy as ever. The Wiz starts at 8:15 p.m. Tuesday through Monday (June 19 to 25) at the Muny in Forest Park (www.muny.org). Tickets are $15 to $100.