The Wiz: A Celebration in Dance and Music, Master Class: Darrin Henson

George Faison, internationally celebrated producer, writer, composer, director, choreographer and dancer, made history in 1975 when he became the first African American to win a Tony Award for Best Choreography for The Wiz. In honor of the Broadway hit’s 40th anniversary this year, Faison will present performances of original songs and dances from the show. Mr. Faison also heads the Faison Firehouse Theater in Central Harlem, which he founded in 2000 along with Tad Schnugg.The Firehouse is a technologically advanced theater where Mr. Faison develops digital applications for the performing arts as well as original theater pieces. The 130 seat theater, branded “Hollywood of Harlem” by the media, is a full service performing arts and cultural center with fine arts galleries, rehearsal facilities and a cabaret theater.


Darrin Dewitt Henson is an award winning choreographer, actor, and writer. Henson grew to fame as Lem Van Adams on the hit Showtime spin-off series Soul Food. For five seasons, Henson engaged audiences with his believable portrayal of a street hustler turned husband, father, and businessman. Henson has been featured in films including The Express, Stomp the Yard, and Chocolate City, and has created a popular web series “The Hotel,” which can be seen via YouTube. Henson has been nominated for four NAACP Image Awards - three times for his role on Soul Food, and once for his book Intimate Thoughts.