Wicked National Tour

Wicked on Broadway

Wicked opened on Broadway at the Gershwin Theatre on October 30, 2003, after beginning previews on October 8. With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman, the musical is based on Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. The original Broadway cast featured Idina Menzel as Elphaba, Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda, Norbert Leo Butz as Fiyero and Joel Grey as the Wizard.

How Long Is Wicked?

Wicked runs approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including intermission. Running times can vary slightly by production.

What Is Wicked About?

Wicked tells the story of Elphaba and Glinda before and during the events of The Wizard of Oz. The musical follows their unlikely friendship, their very different paths and the events that lead Elphaba to become known as the Wicked Witch of the West.

Is Wicked Still Playing?

Yes. Wicked continues to play on Broadway at the Gershwin Theatre in New York and also continues to tour North America.

ChicagoCritic’s Wicked Review

From the ChicagoCritic Review Archive: This original review covers the 2010 national tour of Wicked at Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre. The production information, cast references, ticket prices and opinions below are preserved as part of ChicagoCritic’s theatre review archive.Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz

Book by Winnie Holzman

Director: Joe Mantello

Choreographer James Lynn Abbott

Produced by Broadway In Chicago

At the Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago

The green witch returns to the delight of Chicago audiences

Wicked is the Broadway musical that remains “critic proof” since its appeal is so universal that everyone, especially girls age 10 and above and women, simply can’t get enough of the show. I have never understood the show’s appeal but don’t take my word since I’m not a lover of pop/rock scores nor shrill singing. To me shows like Wicked are long on spectacle (sets, costumes, lighting and special effects) and short on art (singing, dance and acting).  But, remember, I’m out of step with the crowd on this one – just get your tickets (especially if there is a young girl in your family) and enjoy the show!

As an arts reporter, let me say that the national tour of Wicked has fabulous production values and enough energy to makes for a stimulating  evening of musical theatre. Barbara Robertson, as Madame Morrible and Gene Weygandt, as the Wizard of Oz demonstrated the deep talent pool in Chicago.  The dazzling look, lighting, costumes, and special effects propel the show as a commercial treat. The show is fun and light weight entertainment.  The story of friendship and tolerance for anyone who is “different” is a worthy lesson.  It seems that the $105 top ticket doesn’t seem to deter audiences since the show usually sells out. Amazing!

Rating: Recommended – especially for young girls

Tom Williams

Talk Theatre in Chicago podcast

Date Reviewed: December 3, 2010

For full show information, check out the Wicked page at Theatre In Chicago.