Wicked is one of the most successful and beloved musicals of all-time. The show premiered on Broadway, at the Gershwin Theatre, in October of 2003. It has since become one of the Great White Way's longest running productions. The musical has sold millions of Wicked tickets on Broadway as well as in cities all over the world. The musical has been produced for theatres in Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and London's West End—Wicked holds the West End record for biggest opening. Two Wicked tours have been launched in the U.S. and each has been a resounding success. Internationally, the show has had extensive runs in Tokyo, Osaka, Stuttgart, Sydney, and Melbourne.
Wicked is based on the novel "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West" by Gregory Maguire. The tome runs parallel to the 1939 movie Wizard of OZ (which was based on L. Frank Baum's "The Wonderful Wizard of OZ"). Wicked weaves the tale of two witches, Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Galinda (later Glinda) the Good Witch of the North. The two strong female characters are both friends and rivals. The story takes place before Dorothy's arrival in Oz and then continues through her stay and eventual departure. Although she's referenced, you never see the ruby-shoe-wearing Kansan, however Wicked does explain the origins of the Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion.
Wicked's music and lyrics were by Stephen Schwartz ("Godspell" and "Pippin") and the book was written by Winne Holzman (creator of the ABC television series "My So-Called Life"). The original Broadway production was directed by Joe Mantello and the musical staging was done by Wayne Cilento. The magnificent Idina Menzel originated the role of Elphaba and her wonderful performance earned her the 2004 Tony Award for Best Actress. The role of Glinda was originated by the amazing Kristin Chenoweth. The incomparable Joel Grey was cast as... Read more
