WICKED Is Back in Portland – #Broadwayinportland

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Broadway in Portland is thrilled to announce that favorite

WICKED returns by popular demand to Keller Auditorium NOW through November 3

 

Each time I watch WICKED, I am more and more amazed by the performance and story.  

So why is WICKED one of the top must see Broadway show? Whether you are a Broadway newbie or a main stage veteran WICKED is an amazing, easy to follow show that is a perfect fit for the entire family. Here are a few of my top reasons to get your tickets now.  

1. Captivating Storyline

“Wicked” is a prequel to “The Wizard of Oz,” telling the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West Elphaba, LAUREN SAMUELS and Glinda AUSTEN DANIELLE BOHMER the Good Witch. It explores themes of friendship, rivalry, and the nature of good and evil. The plot twists and reimagining of the original “Oz” story offer depth and complexity, drawing audiences into a fresh narrative that challenges preconceived notions. Each time I see the production, I make new connections to the performance and the Wizard Of Oz that I may not have caught on to previously. 

2. Stunning Music

The musical score by Stephen Schwartz is one of its standout features. Iconic songs like “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” and “For Good” resonate deeply with audiences, blending emotion, power, and whimsy. These songs are memorable and emotionally charged, leaving a lasting impression. And if you are not familiar to the show, many of you will be surprised that you have likely heard these popular hit songs before.  

3. Complex Characters

Elphaba (the future Wicked Witch) and Glinda (the future Good Witch) are multi-dimensional characters. The audience watches their friendship evolve as they struggle with personal ambitions, moral dilemmas, and societal expectations. Their character arcs add emotional depth to the story, making the audience empathize with both “villains” and “heroes.”

4. Spectacular Visuals

“Wicked” is known for its lavish set designs, stunning costumes, and breathtaking special effects. From the flying monkeys to Elphaba’s famous “Defying Gravity” moment, where she literally soars above the stage, the visual spectacle is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors and detailed settings transport viewers to the magical land of Oz.

5. Universal Themes

“Wicked” deals with universal themes like acceptance, prejudice, and personal identity. Elphaba’s struggles with being different and misunderstood resonate with many, making her an unlikely but beloved hero. The show’s exploration of political manipulation and propaganda also adds layers of relevance, giving it broader social commentary.

6. Broad Appeal

“Wicked” appeals to all ages. While children enjoy the magical elements and the connection to “The Wizard of Oz,” adults appreciate its deeper themes, social and moral undertones, and emotional complexity. This wide appeal has made it one of Broadway’s most successful and long-running shows.

7. Critical Acclaim and Popularity

Since its debut in 2003, “Wicked” has garnered numerous awards, including Tony Awards and Drama Desk Awards. Its enduring popularity, with sell-out performances for over two decades, speaks to its status as a modern Broadway classic.

With its winning combination of a compelling story, extraordinary music, strong performances, and spectacular production values, “Wicked” continues to enchant audiences, making it a Broadway experience that should not be missed.

Get your Broadway in Portland tickets for WICKED HERE

 www.WickedTheMusical.com

 

The Portland Performance Schedule is:

Week One:

Wednesday, Oct 16                          7:30 pm

Thursday, Oct 17                               1 pm and

7:30 pm – ASL Performance

Friday, Oct 18                                     7:30 pm – Audio Described Performance

Saturday, Oct 19                               2 pm and 7:30 pm

Sunday, Oct 20                                  1pm and

6:30 pm – Open Caption Performance

 

Weeks Two and Three Schedule:

Tuesdays                                              7:30 pm

Wednesdays                                      7:30 pm

Thursdays                                           7:30 pm

Fridays                                                  7:30 pm

Saturdays                                            2 pm and 7:30 pm

Sundays                                               1 pm and 6:30 pm

 

Broadway in Portland is a partnership between Portland Opera and Broadway Across America.

Follow WICKED on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.

 

Synopsis:

 

Winner of more than 100 international awards including the Grammy Award and three Tony Awards, WICKED has been performed in excess of 100 cities in 16 countries around the world (U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Japan, Germany, Holland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, The Philippines, Mexico, Brazil, Switzerland and China) and has thus far been translated into six languages: Japanese, German, Dutch, Spanish, Korean and Portuguese. WICKED has been seen by more than 67 million people worldwide and has amassed over $5.6 billion in global sales.

In addition to the Broadway production, WICKED in North America has enjoyed unprecedented record-breaking sit-down engagements in Chicago, where it ran for nearly four years; Los Angeles, where it ran for two years; and San Francisco, where it ran for nearly two years, as well as two North American Tours.

The Broadway sensation WICKED looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle.  Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin, who is smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”

With a thrilling score that includes the hits “Defying Gravity,” “Popular” and “For Good,” WICKED has been hailed by The New York Times as “the defining musical of the decade,” and by Time Magazine as “a magical Broadway musical with brains, heart, and courage.”  NBC Nightly News calls the hit musical “the most successful Broadway show ever.” 

Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, WICKED has music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, and a book by Winnie Holzman.  The production is directed by Tony Award winner Joe Mantello with musical staging by Tony Award winner Wayne Cilento.  WICKED is produced by Marc Platt, Universal Stage Productions, The Araca Group, Jon B. Platt and David Stone.