Wicked: The Musical's Legacy and Run

For many theater enthusiasts and those new to the stage, the question often arises regarding the exact duration of Wicked: The Musical's run. This article delves into the history, the timeline, and the impressive longevity of this groundbreaking production.

Origins and Premiere

Wicked: The Musical premiered on Broadway in 2003, marking a significant moment in the world of theatrical entertainment. However, the inspiration for the show came from a novel, which predates the musical by nearly a decade. The novel, “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West,” written by Linda L. Ohio and William M. Chavigny, was published in 1990.

Since its premiere, Wicked has captivated audiences around the world, transforming into a global phenomenon. The musical has been performed in over 100 cities across 15 different countries, making it a true international sensation.

Global Impact and Statistics

The success of Wicked is not just reflected in its widespread performance but also in the financial success it has achieved. Since it opened on Broadway in 2003, the musical has grossed over 4.5 billion dollars in global sales. This staggering figure is based on hundreds of thousands of performances, with a grand total of over 55 million people having witnessed the magic of this story.

Wicked has also marked the achievement of being the 6th longest-running show on Broadway, consistently drawing audiences in through its compelling narrative, vibrant music, and rich performances. This longevity is a testament to the quality and enduring appeal of the production.

The Show's Timeline

Wicked opened on Broadway on October 30, 2003. By the time all Broadway shows were shut down due to concerns over the coronavirus in March 2020, the Broadway production had seen a total of 6,836 regular performances, including 25 previews. The official run-time of each show is listed as 2 hours and 48 minutes, with a structured schedule that includes an 88-minute first act, a 18-minute intermission, and a 62-minute second act.

Experience of Watching Wicked

For those fortunate enough to see Wicked, the experience is nothing short of extraordinary. As a volunteer usher at the Hobby Center in Houston, The author had the opportunity to watch the 2nd National Tour - Munchkinland during its six-week run. Typically, a Broadway show, including Wicked, starts a few minutes after the scheduled curtain time, with the curtain officially rising five minutes past the scheduled time.

A standard performance would kick off at 2:05 PM, with the show expected to conclude around 4:53 PM. It’s important to note that showtimes can vary, and performances may be longer or shorter depending on the specific production. However, a two-and-a-half-hour-plus run with a 15-minute intermission remains the norm for Broadway musicals.

Conclusion

The enduring success and longevity of Wicked: The Musical underscore its impact on the theatrical world. From its humble beginnings as a novel to its current status as a cultural phenomenon, Wicked continues to captivate audiences worldwide, proving that storytelling on stage can transcend time and space.