Every Broadway Record Broken by “Wicked”
- Wicked smashed multiple records to be the best-selling Broadway play.
- It also collected a massive amount in ticket sales, becoming one of the most profitable shows.
- The upcoming movie Wicked is also poised for success as fans are excited to see this adaptation of the story.
While we have often seen adaptations of The Wizard of Oz with a focus on Dorothy and her adventures, people often forget about the story behind the witches who came to forge an unlikely alliance. Narrating the story of Elphaba and Glinda, Wicked charts a unique course in Oz’s history and gives a deeper insight into the two characters.
The Broadway play has been a massive success in its heyday, with its movie adaptation starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande releasing soon. The epic fantasy takes viewers on a decadent journey of self-exploration, acceptance, and nuances of friendship. Before the movie hits the big screen, here’s a look at all the records broken by the Broadway play Wicked.
Broadway’s Highest Grossing Production
While The Phantom of the Opera held this title for the longest time, consolidating the top position for eight years, Wicked broke the record and became Broadway’s highest-grossing musical for nine consecutive years. The value of this feat is unparalleled as it beat every other Broadway musical to reach this stage.
The play has been adapted from the story written by Gregory Maguire with great songs and even better actors who brought the characters to life. Not only was the story fresh and incredibly moving but the actors Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth were also appreciated for their skill on stage.
Nominated for 10 Tony Awards
The charm of Wicked did not remain unseen by the higher-ups as the play was showered with nominations and wins for its epic run. In 2004, the play was nominated in 10 Tony categories including Best Musical, Book, Orchestrations, Original Score, Choreography, Costume Design, Lighting Design, and Scenic Design.
Menzel, who played Elphaba, took home the award for Best Actress along with overall recognitions for Best Scenic Design and Best Costume Design.
Highest One-Week Grossing Production
In December 2012, Wicked also broke the record for being the highest-grossing production in one-week ticket sales. The show garnered $2.94 million in the last week of the year, making it one of the most profitable Broadway productions ever.
It seems like the masses just cannot get enough of Elphaba and Glinda as they continue to flock into theatres and experience the enchanting story time and time again.
Wicked Established a New National Touring Record
In the same week when Wicked grossed the highest ticket sales, it also made a new record by touring nationwide. Their one-week gross stood at $2,755,070 at the Fabulous Fox Theatre in St. Louis whereas at the Honolulu’s Blaisdell Center, they smashed records with a house record gross of $1,585,402.
The play was truly a cultural phenomenon, loved by viewers across the country. It went on to be presented at various iconic locations in America, making house records at prominent theatres and stages.
Wicked Movie is not a Filmed Version of the Play
Stephen Schwartz, who wrote the music and lyrics for the Broadway play, is also on board for the upcoming movie starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. In 2017, when the play was still running off the charts, he told Variety what people could expect from the movie that was supposed to be out by 2019.
There are things that work on stage but won’t work on film. In order to do something that will work on its own merits, you have to do something different. The only concern is people who would be coming expecting to see a filmed version of the play. They’re not going to see that.
Finally, the movie is ready for the masses to see. It will be released on November 22, 2024. The first trailer of the movie itself garnered high viewership, showcasing the excitement in fans to see the story unfold on the big screen.
