WICKED Flies into Brisbane: A Magical Green Carpet Premiere
Tonight, Brisbane will shimmer with emerald hues as the Green Carpet premiere of Broadway’s blockbuster musical, WICKED, graces the Lyric Theatre at QPAC. As one of the most anticipated theatrical events of the year, this evening marks the beginning of a spellbinding journey for Brisbane audiences, who are set to be enchanted by the extraordinary story of friendship, rivalry, and the magic that exists beyond the yellow brick road.
A Global Phenomenon Comes to Brisbane
WICKED is not just a musical; it’s a global phenomenon. With over 65 million people worldwide having witnessed its magic, the production is a triumphant masterpiece that has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences across 16 countries. From Japan to the UK, WICKED’s reach extends far and wide, with the musical translated into six languages and celebrated for its exceptional production values and compelling narrative. Now, it’s Brisbane’s turn to experience the wonder. WICKED, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman, is a musical adaptation of Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel ‘Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West,’ itself a reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.’ The story, told from the perspectives of two witches, Elphaba and Galinda, delves into their complex friendship and how their differing personalities, a shared love interest, and moral conflicts shape their destinies as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Premiering on Broadway in 2003, WICKED quickly became a global sensation, winning three Tony Awards, seven Drama Desk Awards, and a Grammy for its original cast album. It has set box-office records worldwide, including surpassing $1 billion in total Broadway revenue, and is currently the second-highest-grossing musical on Broadway, behind only ‘The Lion King.’ A two-part film adaptation, directed by Jon M. Chu and featuring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, is set for release in 2024 and 2025.
A Stellar Cast and Opulent Production
Tonight’s Green Carpet premiere is more than just a glamorous event—it’s a celebration of an exceptional Australian cast ready to take the stage by storm. Leading the cast is Queenslander Courtney Monsma as Glinda, the bubbly, popular girl destined to become “Glinda the Good.” Making her debut in a lead role, Sheridan Adams portrays Elphaba, the misunderstood girl born with emerald-green skin who defies gravity to become the “Wicked Witch of the West.” They are joined by theatre legends Robyn Nevin as Madame Morrible and Todd McKenney as the Wizard, alongside Brisbane’s own Ainsley Melham as Fiyero.
The ensemble, comprising some of the finest talent in Australian theatre, promises to bring the land of Oz to life with mesmerizing performances. With lavish sets, opulent costumes, and a rich, visually spectacular production, WICKED offers a full Broadway experience that is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the ears.
A Triumph of Music, Emotion, and Spectacle
WICKED’s arrival in Brisbane follows a triumphant run at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre and six months of rapturous praise at the Sydney Lyric Theatre. Critics have celebrated the production for its “ingenious and beautiful” presentation, with the Sydney Morning Herald describing it as a dazzling spectacle. From its unforgettable songs by Stephen Schwartz to the powerful storytelling crafted by Winnie Holzman, WICKED is not just about witches and wizards—it’s a tale of choices, consequences, and the complexities of friendship.
As the fourth longest-running show in Broadway history, WICKED’s legacy is one of enchantment and excellence. With accolades including three Tony Awards®, six Drama Desk Awards, and the Grammy Award, the musical continues to be a beacon of theatrical brilliance, captivating audiences with its blend of humor, heart, and dazzling spectacle.
Be First in Line for a Magical Experience
For those yet to witness the magic of WICKED, this Brisbane season is an unmissable opportunity. Whether it’s your first time in Oz or a return visit, WICKED promises to enthrall and inspire with its uplifting message, spectacular staging, and timeless appeal. As co-producer John Frost notes, “If you have never seen WICKED, come and see it for the first time and be spellbound. If you have seen it before, I know you’ll want to come back and be enthralled all over again.”
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable experience. Get ready to be swept off your feet and into a world where the unexpected unfolds, and nothing is as it seems. WICKED is more than just a musical—it’s a journey into the heart of Oz, and it’s happening right here in Brisbane.
Experience the magic tonight at the Green Carpet premiere and prepare to defy gravity with WICKED, the musical that continues to captivate the world, one spellbinding performance at a time.
WICKED Brisbane Season Details
- Venue: Lyric Theatre, QPAC
- Season: From September
Rejoice, Brisbane—WICKED is here, and it’s going to be a spellbinding season book tickets HERE.
