The Wiz

11:00am - Sunday, Apr 6, 2025

The Wiz

Given the success and popularity of the recent film adaptation of WICKED, we thought the time was right to "ease on down the road" and revisit Sidney Lumet's iconic, star-studded 1978 adaptation of the beloved Tony-award winning Broadway musical, THE WIZ, with a family-friendly screening on Sunday, April 6.

When Harlem schoolteacher Dorothy (Diana Ross) tries to save her dog from a storm, she's miraculously whisked away to an urban fantasy land called Oz. After accidentally killing the Wicked Witch of the East upon her arrival, Dorothy is told about the Wiz (Richard Pryor), a wizard who can help her get back to Manhattan. As Dorothy goes in search of the Wiz, she's joined by the Scarecrow (Michael Jackson), the Tin Man (Nipsey Russell) and the Cowardly Lion (Ted Ross). With Lena Horne

"Director Sidney Lumet has created what amounts to a love letter to the city of New York, which he equates with Oz." (Variety)

"Whether you love or hate this movie, there is no denying how memorable it truly is and how impactful it has been on the culture of Oz enthusiasts and Black cinema, alike." (ScreenAnarchy)

Sunday, April 6
Doors 10:30 am | Movie 11:00 am *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

THE WIZ (Sidney Lumet, 1978 / 145 mins / G) An adaptation of "The Wizard of Oz" that tries to capture the essence of the African-American experience.


*Minors OK. Must be 19+ w/ID for bar service.
*Rio Theatre Groupons and passes OK for any single film only. Please redeem at the door.
*We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance at www.riotheatretickets.ca. If a screening or live event is not sold out, the remaining tickets will be available for in-person purchase at the Rio Theatre’s Box Office prior to showtime (subject to availability).
*Our box office is typically open 30 minutes before showtime. All seating is General Admission; please arrive 20-30 minutes prior to showtime to ensure great seats, and time for treats at concession.
*If you are looking to redeem either a Rio Theatre gift certificate or Groupon to any regular Rio Theatre screening: You can either email us in advance and give us a “heads up,” or do it at the box office prior to showtime.

*All Rio Theatre tickets are final sale. No refunds or exchanges.