"Wicked at 20: Taking Flight into Cinema" with Prof. Gil Harel

Set in the fantastical world of L. Frank Baum’s “Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, Wicked would become one of the most successful Broadway blockbusters of the early 21st century. Told from the perspective of the witches of Oz, Wicked focuses on Elphaba (the fabled “Wicked Witch of the West”) and Glinda (“the Good Witch”). Meeting in the years prior to Dorothy Gale’s arrival in Oz, the relationship between them is the beating heart of a musical which addresses themes including power, ego, façade and friendship.  Having earned more than $1.5 billion, it has the distinction of being one of the most financially successful works in Broadway history. The Wicked legacy continues to evolve as audiences anticipate the first of a two-part movie adaptation, slated for release in late 2024. Join Professor Gil Harel as he considers the elements of the show that have contributed to its exceptional success.