Story highlights "The Wiz Live" has a star-studded black cast

It features a newcomer in the role of Dorothy

(CNN) Some were not initially happy when NBC announced it would be staging "The Wiz Live!"

The Broadway musical that was adapted into a 1978 film starring Diana Ross as Dorothy and Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow is beloved and one of those projects that many fans felt should not be touched.

It remains to be seen whether the new production airing Thursday night pulls it off, but rest assured, Black Twitter will be all over it.

That group has been most vocal because "The Wiz," the black adaption of L. Frank Baum's "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," is part of the African-American canon of films.

JUST WATCHED What is Black Twitter? Replay More Videos ... MUST WATCH What is Black Twitter? 01:54

"Black Twitter" refers to the complex and powerful society on Twitter that focuses on issues of interest to the black community, be they political, social or entertainment.

Read More