Ashanti // The Wiz at Encores! Summer Stars Series Preview

R&B singer Ashanti gave a special sneak peak performance as Dorothy from “The Wiz” as a part of the “Encores! Summer Stars Series” at New York City Center Tuesday in NYC. Ashanti will take on the role, made famous by Diana Ross, this summer at The New York City Center.

“We don’t start rehearsals until next Monday, so I’m at home rehearsing in my room,” she told MTV News at a press conference for “The Wiz,” where she sang the song “Home” from the show. “But it feels great to be out here and to sing ‘Home’ for the very first time in front of a crowd. It makes it realistic, and it kind of hits home, ironically.”

Ashanti // The Wiz at Encores! Summer Stars Series Preview Ashanti // The Wiz at Encores! Summer Stars Series Preview

“I think so many people relate to that song on so many different levels. Obviously, for me, being gone and traveling so much, you miss home, and you get a sense of ‘I miss it,’ so when I’m there, I take advantage,” she said. “Then again, so many people are able to relate to it.”

The production will run from June 12th through July 5th at the New York City Center.

Ashanti // The Wiz at Encores! Summer Stars Series Preview

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

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