Is Wicked a Must-See? Reasons to Check Out This Magical Production
Everyone knows that not all Broadway shows are created equal; some shows are just on another level. Without question, Wicked is one of those shows. For anyone who has purchased Wicked tickets and experienced the performance in person, a Wicked show is truly a magical experience. Its roots are in the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz, making it a part of a seminal story for people of all ages. But that’s just one reason why Wicked is a must-see musical. Let’s explore some other reasons why everyone should make it a point to see the Wicked show live at least once in their life.
The Music
Without question, the music is the best reason to see Wicked. The soundtrack has produced several bonafide hits, including “The Wizard and I,” “One Short Day,” “As Long As You’re Mine,” and the hugely popular “Defying Gravity.” But hearing the songs on the radio or even owning the soundtrack isn’t the same as seeing them on the stage. Much like a concert, live performances blow away any recording. The songs during the Wicked show are performed spectacularly and will surely be the highlight of the show.
It’s a Prequel
Let’s be honest who doesn’t love a prequel? For anyone who loved The Wizard of Oz, especially the book, the Wicked show will only add to the love and appreciation you have for the original story. Not to give anything away, but the musical shares Dorothy’s story - before the events in The Wizard of Oz. It’s a prequel to the movie, uniquely continuing the story. After seeing Wicked, you will have answers to some of your questions about The Wizard of Oz while also having new things to watch closer the next time you watch the movie. In other words, it’s easy for fans of The Wizard of Oz to make a special connection to the story of Wicked.
Easter Eggs
Since the two stories are inherently connected, there will be plenty of “aha” moments during Wicked. Fans will find both big and little references to The Wizards of Oz. Fans of the book or movie will love watching Wicked closely and looking for easter eggs. Some are obvious, while some are subtle, but they all make Wicked far more engaging and enjoyable.
It Hits All the Senses
Most people attend musicals for the music, but Wicked does a lot more than please your ears. Granted, we can’t promise your sense of touch or smell will be activated during the show. But the performance is visually appealing in a way that not all musicals can match. The choreography during the musical numbers is at another level, not to mention the color schemes used and the way the entire show transports you to another world. The show goes to great lengths to make you feel something, not just listen to amazing songs.
Costumes and Sets
Along those same lines, the costumes and the sets in Wicked are an integral part of the show and a huge part of its appeal. After all, the original Broadway production of the show won the Tony for Best Scenic Design and Best Costume Design while also being nominated for Best Lighting Design. The entire show is a spectacle in the best possible way, with every little detail meticulously planned out. This is what makes Wicked such a special performance.
It’s a Touching Story
With Wicked, audiences will come for the music, but they often walk away thinking about the story. It might be cliche to call a Broadway performance an emotional rollercoaster, but in the case of Wicked, it’s the best way to describe it. That’s because the show doesn’t just focus on sweet Dorothy. The narrative follows Elphaba, who we know better as the Wicked Witch of the West. That makes it a different kind of story than The Wizard of Oz, but one that is still able to tug at the heartstrings of audiences.
Understanding Elphaba
Why is the story of Wicked so touching? It’s because audiences get to see Elphaba in a new light. Audiences will understand why she is the way she is while also witnessing her being more than just a villain. The relationship between Elphaba and Glinda is truly one of the special relationships ever examined in a musical. It’s something that people have to see for themselves to truly understand, but it’s something they’ll never forget and will forever change the way they look at the events of The Wizard of Oz.
You’ll Understand the Buzz
It might sound silly, but one of the best reasons to see Wicked is to say that you have. Even better than that, you’ll never have to wonder if the show is really as good as people say it is. After seeing it in person, you’ll get to decide for yourself. However, between the music, the choreography, the story, and the connection people will make with it, there is very little chance that anyone who sees Wicked walks away anything but enchanted with the experience.