Wicked the Musical Timeline from Broadway to Motion Picture Movie
Wicked the Musical has captivated audiences since its Broadway debut in 2003. This fresh take on the Wizard of Oz story explores the origins of the wicked witch and good witch, diving into themes of friendship, identity, and acceptance.
With stunning scenic design, unforgettable songs, and a story that continues to resonate, Wicked has become a cultural phenomenon. This guide takes you through the history of Wicked the Musical, from its Broadway premiere to its highly anticipated film adaptation.
Key Takeaways
- Wicked Broadway Opening: Learn how the show’s debut at the Gershwin Theatre in 2003 became a beloved staple of Broadway history.
- Worldwide Success: Discover how Wicked played across the world, with key productions like the West End production in London and non-replica productions in countries such as Japan and Germany.
- Film Adaptation: Get the latest information on the Wicked movie, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, set for a two-part release.
The Broadway Debut of Wicked the Musical
The Gershwin Theatre in New York City became the home of Wicked the Musical when it officially opened on October 30, 2003, following previews that began on October 8.
Directed by Joe Mantello and featuring Stephen Schwartz’s memorable original score, the production starred Idina Menzel as Elphaba and Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda. The story offers a fresh perspective on Oz, focusing on Elphaba, the misunderstood witch of the west, and her journey at Shiz University.
Before its Broadway debut, Wicked had an out of town tryout in San Francisco at the Curran Theatre. It quickly garnered attention for its emotional depth, spectacular scenic design, and songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular.” The original Broadway cast recording became a must-have for theatre enthusiasts, spreading the magic of the show beyond New York.
Early Broadway Success
The impact of Wicked on Broadway was immediate. With its intricate costume design, including Elphaba’s iconic green skin, and the enchanting Emerald City sets, it became a favourite among audiences. The show received numerous Tony Award nominations and won for outstanding costume design and scenic design, while Idina Menzel won the Tony Award for Best Actress.
Despite not winning Best Musical, Wicked quickly established itself as one of Broadway’s top-grossing shows. Its powerful story of acceptance and defiance, paired with Stephen Schwartz’s original score, kept audiences coming back.
Wicked Goes Worldwide
The story of Wicked the Musical didn’t just stay on Broadway. It found success around the world, making it a global phenomenon.
London Production
The West End production of Wicked opened in London on September 27, 2006, at the Apollo Victoria Theatre. Idina Menzel reprised her role as Elphaba for the London debut, with Helen Dallimore as Glinda. The London production has since become a staple of the West End, drawing in theatre-goers from across the UK.
International Premieres
| Year | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Tokyo, Japan | First non-replica production, performed in Japanese |
| 2008 | Melbourne, Australia | Australian production introduced the story to new audiences |
| 2009 | First National Tour, USA | Brought Wicked across the United States, making it accessible to new fans |
| 2010 | Stuttgart, Germany | Continued to spread Wicked’s appeal in Europe |
What is Wicked About?
Wicked the Musical tells the story of Elphaba, a young woman with green skin who is often misunderstood and feared. She meets Glinda at Shiz University, and though the two start as rivals, they develop a complex friendship. The narrative explores themes like prejudice, power, and what it means to be truly “good.”
The outstanding book by Winnie Holzman and Stephen Schwartz’s original score provide a rich backdrop for these themes. The plot dives into Elphaba’s backstory, including her relationships with her witch’s mother and witch’s father, her connection to Elphaba’s younger sister, Nessarose, and her evolving role in the world of Oz.
Songs in Wicked the Musical
The songs in Wicked the Musical have become iconic, helping to tell the story of Elphaba and Glinda as they navigate their complicated friendship in Oz. The score, composed by Stephen Schwartz, features a mix of heartfelt ballads and lively, upbeat numbers.
These songs bring the emotional highs and lows of the story to life, capturing Elphaba’s journey from an outcast at Shiz University to the feared Witch of the West. Here is a list of all the songs in Wicked, in order of their appearance:
| Song Title |
|---|
| No One Mourns the Wicked |
| Dear Old Shiz |
| The Wizard and I |
| What Is This Feeling? |
| Something Bad |
| Dancing Through Life |
| Popular |
| I’m Not That Girl |
| One Short Day |
| A Sentimental Man |
| Defying Gravity |
| Thank Goodness |
| Wonderful |
| I’m Not That Girl (Reprise) |
| As Long As You’re Mine |
| No Good Deed |
| March of the Witch Hunters |
| For Good |
| Finale (For Good Reprise) |
Characters in Wicked the Musical
The characters of Wicked the Musical play a crucial role in retelling the classic Wizard of Oz story from a new perspective. Each character adds depth to the plot, bringing a new layer of understanding to the events in Oz. Below is a list of key characters in Wicked and a brief description of their role in the story:
| Character | Description |
|---|---|
| Elphaba | The misunderstood Witch of the West, born with green skin and strong magical abilities. |
| Glinda | The popular and bubbly good witch who eventually befriends Elphaba despite their differences. |
| The Wonderful Wizard | The ruler of Oz, who is not as benevolent as he appears, manipulating those around him. |
| Nessarose | Elphaba’s younger sister, later known as the Witch of the East. Her story intertwines with Elphaba’s journey. |
| Madame Morrible | The manipulative headmistress of Shiz University who plays a pivotal role in shaping Elphaba’s destiny. |
| Fiyero | A carefree prince who befriends Elphaba and Glinda, later becoming romantically involved with Elphaba. |
| Boq | A Munchkin student at Shiz University with feelings for Glinda, who eventually becomes the Tin Man. |
| Dr. Dillamond | A goat professor at Shiz University who faces discrimination, symbolising the prejudice in Oz. |
| Elphaba’s Father | Cold and distant, he blames Elphaba for her mother’s death and favours Nessarose. |
| Elphaba’s Mother | Dies giving birth to Nessarose, leaving a significant impact on Elphaba’s early life. |
| Cowardly Lion | Introduced as a cub saved by Elphaba, later known as the Cowardly Lion. |
| Tin Man | The transformed version of Boq, turned into the Tin Man by a spell gone wrong. |
| Dorothy Gale | Mentioned but not seen in the musical, her arrival in Oz marks a turning point in the story. |
The Anticipated Film Adaptation
Fans have eagerly awaited the Wicked film adaptation for years. Announced in 2012, production only began in 2021. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda.
The adaptation will be released in two parts, with the first arriving in November 2024 and the second in 2025. It aims to bring the world of Oz to life with new perspectives and visually stunning backdrops.
| Release Year | Film Part |
|---|---|
| 2024 | Part One |
| 2025 | Part Two |
A 20-Year Broadway Legacy
Wicked the Musical celebrated its 20th anniversary on October 30, 2023, becoming the fourth-longest-running show in Broadway history. It surpassed Cats to reach this milestone, joining the ranks of The Lion King and Chicago.
Despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to a temporary closure in 2020, Wicked came back strong in 2021, continuing to fill the Gershwin Theatre with enthusiastic audiences.
Overall
Wicked the Musical is a show that has not only stood the test of time but has also evolved and grown, captivating audiences around the world.
Its unique take on the Wizard of Oz story, combined with its stunning scenic design, heartfelt story, and unforgettable songs, ensures that Wicked remains a beloved classic both on stage and in its upcoming film adaptation.
With a powerful message about embracing differences, Wicked is sure to continue to inspire new generations of fans for years to come.
FAQs
What is Wicked the Musical about?
Wicked tells the story of Elphaba, the Witch of the West, and her unlikely friendship with Glinda before Dorothy Gale arrives in Oz. It explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the nature of good and evil.
When did Wicked officially open on Broadway?
Wicked had its official opening at the Gershwin Theatre on October 30, 2003.
Who composed the music for Wicked the Musical?
Stephen Schwartz composed the original score for Wicked, which includes iconic songs like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good.”
Who starred as Elphaba in the original Broadway cast?
Idina Menzel played Elphaba in the original Broadway production, earning a Tony Award for her performance.
Where is Wicked currently playing in London?
The London production of Wicked continues to run at the Apollo Victoria Theatre.
When is the Wicked film adaptation being released?
The Wicked film adaptation is set for a two-part release, with Part One arriving in November 2024 and Part Two in 2025.
How many Tony Awards has Wicked won?
Wicked has won several Tony Awards, including awards for outstanding costume design, scenic design, and Idina Menzel’s Best Actress win.
What themes does Wicked explore?
The musical touches on themes like acceptance, prejudice, and the complexities of good versus evil, particularly through the character of Elphaba and her struggles with being different.
Which songs are the most popular from Wicked?
Fan favourites include “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” “Dancing Through Life,” and “For Good.”
Why is Elphaba green?
Elphaba’s green skin is a central part of her character, symbolising her outsider status and the prejudice she faces in the world of Oz.
