FOLLOW THE YELLOW
BRICK ROAD—AGAIN

A richly curated concert that
celebrates Oz across generations

Vocalist La Vance Colley and conductor Rachael Worby.

MUSE/IQUE’s Back to Oz concert event, presented in partnership with Center Theatre Group at the Mark Taper Forum, brings together music spanning more than a century of storytelling inspired by L. Frank Baum’s beloved world. Led by Artistic & Music Director Rachael Worby, and featuring guest vocalists Carmen Cusack, LaVance Colley, and Nathan Granner, along with the DC6 Singers Collective and the MUSE/IQUE Orchestra, the program—which continues through Sunday—explores how the myth of Oz continues to resonate across time and culture.

Vocalist Carmen Cusack sings “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” during Muse/ique’s BACK TO OZ CONCERT.

Since the publication of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz in 1900, Dorothy’s journey has become one of America’s defining fairy tales. Its themes—outsiders seeking belonging, the search for home, and the resilience of underdogs—have inspired countless musical interpretations, from Hollywood’s Golden Age to Motown to Broadway. The enduring appeal lies in its universality: no matter where audiences come from, Oz reflects a shared longing for connection and acceptance.

Rachael Worby introduces the original and unique 1938 York Tuba, created for a softer and warmer sound for The Wizard of Oz movie soundtrack. Played by Blake Cooper with the Muse/ique orchestra.

Worby’s hallmark approach—combining performance with thoughtful historical context—elevates the evening beyond a standard concert. She offers engaging background on the songs, their creators, and their cultural impact, weaving together the contributions of artists such as Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg (The Wizard of Oz), Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman (Wicked), and Charlie Smalls and William F. Brown (The Wiz). These insights deepen appreciation for how each era reinterprets Baum’s original vision.

Nathan Granner and Carmen Cusack perform with the MUSE/IQUE orchestra, led by Rachael Worby.

Among the many fascinating details shared is the origin of the name Elphaba—the Wicked Witch of the West in Wicked—derived from the initials of L. Frank Baum, and popularized by author Gregory Maguire, who reimagined the character’s story from a more sympathetic perspective. Such revelations underscore the way Oz has continually evolved, shaped by artists who find new meaning in its familiar characters.

LaVance Colley and Nathan Granner perform “Ease on Down the Road” with members of DC6 Singers Collective.

Musically, the program opens with Luther Vandross’s rousing “A Brand New Day” from The Wiz, immediately setting an energetic tone aligned with MUSE/IQUE’s season theme, “Where the Heart Is.” Whether exploring the idea of leaving home, longing for it, or rediscovering it, the selections highlight Oz as a distinctly American fable—one that speaks to dreamers, immigrants, and anyone seeking community.

Rachael Worby with vocalists LaVance Golley and Carmen Cusack perform “For Good” from Wicked by Stephen Schwartz.

The concert also delves into the technical and historical innovations behind these works. From the development of three-strip Technicolor in the 1939 film to the distinctive sound of the MGM orchestra—including a rare 1938 York tuba, now owned and played here by MUSE/IQUE’s Blake Cooper—the program celebrates not just the music but the craftsmanship that brought Oz to life. Even unexpected connections, such as Kermit the Frog and Ray Charles performing “It’s Not Easy Being Green,” reinforce the story’s broader cultural reach.

Vocalist LeVance Colley belts “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, earning him a standing ovation.

Throughout, the vocal performances shine. Cusack brings emotional clarity and warmth, Colley delivers powerhouse vocals with commanding presence, and Granner adds a lyrical, expressive quality that complements the ensemble. Together, they embody the spirit of Oz’s diverse musical legacy, supported by the richly textured sound of the orchestra.

The MUSE/IQUE orchestra

By seamlessly blending performance with storytelling, Worby creates an experience that is both entertaining and enlightening. Back to Oz is more than a nostalgic journey—it’s a reminder of how a single story can inspire generations of artists and audiences alike. As the concert makes clear, the road to Oz may be well traveled, but it continues to offer new discoveries with every step.

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photos by Haoyuan Ren, courtesy of MUSE/IQUE

Back to Oz
MUSE/IQUE
Mark Taper Forum, 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles
next performances Thu, Apr 23 & Fri, Apr 24 at 7:30;
Sat, Apr 25 at 2:30 & 7:30; Sun, Apr 26 at 2:30
for tickets (starting at $75), visit muse-ique

for more shows, visit Theatre in Los Angeles

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MUSE/IQUE is a member-supported, nonprofit performing arts organization, with yearly subscription beginning at $350, which includes complimentary admission to all MUSE/IQUE events. Admission for non-members starts at $75 for a single admission or $100 for a trial membership with admission for two people. To learn more, please visit http://www.muse-ique.com/membership