The Cast of The Wiz Clicked Their Heels Three Times and Ended Up at the 2024 Met Gala in Tanner Fletcher
It was a night to remember as the vibrant cast of Broadway’s revival of *The Wiz* swapped their magical costumes for glamorous red-carpet looks by the rising fashion house Tanner Richie and Fletcher Kasell. The 2024 Met Gala, held under the enchanting theme “Garden of Time,” became the backdrop where these talented performers—Nichelle Lewis, Avery Wilson, Phillip Johnson Richardson, and Kyle Ramar Freeman—took their first steps into the world of high fashion.
Transition from Stage to Red Carpet
The Met Gala is not just a celebration of fashion; it’s a global event that brings together some of the most influential figures in art, design, and entertainment. For the cast members, this marked their debut at one of the year’s most anticipated parties, offering them an opportunity to showcase another dimension of their artistic talents.
“We are so excited to take this step in our career,” says Fletcher Kasell. “The journey from watching the Met Gala as spectators to gracing its red carpet is a dream come true.”
Tanner Richie and Fletcher Kasell’s Debut
This year also marked Tanner Fletcher’s debut at the Met Gala, an exciting milestone for the young designers who have rapidly ascended in the fashion industry. Their aesthetic—known for its whimsical and nostalgic nods to 1950s styles—is perfectly aligned with this year’s dress code.
Iconic Looks of the Night
Nichelle Lewis as Dorothy
Nichelle Lewis, who plays Dorothy in *The Wiz*, captured attention with her stunning gown inspired by JG Ballard’s “The Garden of Time.” The dress featured a multi-layered design: a caged hoop skirt made from boning, followed by two layers of ruffled tulle and topped off with black velvet. The designers noted that the velvet not only added elegance but also paid homage to the main character’s garb in the story.
Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion
For Kyle Ramar Freeman, playing the role of the Lion, the ensemble was a statement piece. The designers described the light pink color as symbolic of growth and vitality, reminiscent of a flourishing garden. With 28 yards of fabric used for its dramatic trailing cape, the look embodied both style and functionality, featuring an underlying double-breasted suit perfect for dancing.
Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tin Man
The modern-day updates to a 1970s leisure suit crafted for Phillip Johnson Richardson were nothing short of innovative. Made from ruffled ivory velvet and accented with a posy holder brooch, this look allowed him to carry the spirit of the Tin Man into the future.
Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow
Avery Wilson’s ensemble took Tanner Fletcher’s signature pussy bow to new heights. The exaggerated lengths, draping down to the ground, added a theatrical flair that echoed her role on stage.
The Collaboration
Working with such an artistic and diverse group was both challenging and exhilarating for Tanner Richie and Fletcher Kasell. They saw it as a unique opportunity to blend their distinct style with the theatrical elements of *The Wiz*. “It’s always fun to collaborate with other creatives,” they said. “We love bringing that sense of spectacle into our designs.”
Conclusion: A Night of Magic and Fashion
The 2024 Met Gala proved yet again that fashion is not just about the clothes but also about storytelling, creativity, and a shared passion for beauty. For the cast of *The Wiz*, it was an unforgettable night where their journey from stage to the red carpet came full circle.
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