Meet Shanice Williams – Star Of NBC’s New Live TV Musical #TheWiz

Q: How did you bring the character of Dorothy into the modern day?

A: “I’m living in a different time, and I’m experiencing things differently. I handle things differently. Also it’s the choreography. It’s hip hop – every dance that we do now we’re going to do it in the classiest way.”

Q: How are you going to deal with jitters on performance night?

A: “Kenny, our director, always says ‘If you’re going to pray, don’t worry, and if you’re going to worry, don’t pray – and I’m going to be praying. I’m going to be praying the whole day, and that’s it.”

Q: What are you going to do when the show is over?

A: “We’re going to have a little party, then I’m going to cry, then I’m going to go to sleep.”

Q: Who has given you the best advice on set?

A: “Stephanie (Mills) she has been my role model. She tells me to take everything one step at a time and live in the moment. When it comes to ‘Home’ that’s my song, don’t hold back. She always has advice for me. I love her. That’s my auntie, for real!!”

Q: What’s up next for you? Where do you want your career to go from here?

A: “Audra McDonald, she does everything. She’s my inspiration. She does film, Broadway, everything, she does her albums – and I wanna be just like her. So if it comes along my way, if it’s great for my career, if it’s TV, film or Broadway, I’d love to do it all.”

The Wiz airs live Dec. 3 on NBC.

*Note: This interview was edited and condensed for space and clarity.