About Wicked on Broadway

For nearly 20 years, Wicked has captivated audiences at the Gershwin Theatre, solidifying its place as the fourth-longest-running Broadway show in history. Grab your Wicked tickets on New York Theatre Guide now and experience the musical that has enchanted countless audiences.

Based on Gregory Maguire’s best-selling 1995 novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, Wicked explores the backstory of the Wizard of Oz antagonist before she became known as the Wicked Witch. Originally Elphaba, a green-skinned outcast with a gift for sorcery, she forms an unlikely friendship with Glinda the Good Witch during their school years. Their bond is tested and ultimately turned upside down when a meeting with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz goes awry.

The original cast recording of Wicked won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, featuring iconic songs like “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” and “For Good.” The musical score, composed by Stephen Schwartz (also known for Pippin and Godspell), was complemented by Winnie Holzman’s adaptation of Maguire’s novel into the show’s book.

Initially intended to be a feature film, Maguire’s novel was adapted into a stage musical after Stephen Schwartz convinced Universal to co-produce it. Now, a two-part Wicked film adaptation is in the works, starring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jonathan Bailey.

When Did Wicked Open on Broadway?

After its pre-Broadway engagement at San Francisco’s Curran Theatre in April 2003, Wicked officially opened at the Gershwin Theatre in October 2003. Since then, it has turned countless people into musical theatre fans.

Wicked won three Tony Awards in 2004, including one for Idina Menzel’s portrayal of Elphaba. Both Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, who played Glinda, achieved Broadway superstardom, delivering some of the most iconic performances in recent Broadway history.

How Long Is Wicked the Musical?

Wicked runs for 2 hours and 45 minutes, including an intermission.

Experience Wicked on Broadway

Catch all the wonder and spectacle of Wicked on Broadway and discover why the show has been a perennial favorite. Get your tickets to Wicked in New York now and join the millions who have been spellbound by this magical musical.