Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Just went to see Beauty and the Beast the musical at the Chicago Shakespeare theater a couple weeks ago and I forgot how much I adore Broadway shows. I am actually obsessed. Have you ever had a favorite t-shirt that you just couldn’t part with, no matter how many holes it had in it? I have a few that are over 30 years old that I just can’t let go of. I am a loyal hoarder, if I am anything. Maybe you have a favorite movie that you can watch or song that you can listen to over and over again? For me, it’s Wicked. If I could spend the rest of my life watching 2 things it would be the Barbie movie and the Wicked musical. This October, Wicked celebrates it’s 20th anniversary and I’m celebrating with a Wicked Giveaway!
Over the years, I’ve fallen in love with many musicals for many different reasons but there is just something about Wicked that hits my heart on a spiritual level. I’ve seen it many times and I never tire of it. Not any of it. I would willingly watch it every day for the rest of my life. That’s how much I love this musical. Guess what?
I’m a writer so I love the symbolism in Wicked. It’s not what we expected it to be and that is my favorite kind of anything. I love a good plot twist, especially if its empowering. The plot sort of picks up where all the holes in the Wizard of Oz left off. It’s sort of how the Rob Zombie Halloween series is more thorough with the backstory of Michale Myers and I am always here for understanding why the antagonist is really the hero. And yes, Elphaba is definitely an unexpected hero.
The musical “Wicked” is known for its rich symbolism. Here are a few of my favorites:
1. Good and Evil: The story explores the concept of good and evil, challenging the notion that appearances alone can determine a person’s true nature. It delves into the complexities of morality, emphasizing that things are not always black and white.
2. Discrimination and Prejudice: “Wicked” addresses themes of discrimination and prejudice, drawing parallels to real-world issues. It highlights the dangers of judging individuals based on stereotypes and the importance of empathy and understanding.
3. Friendship and Loyalty: The bond between Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda (the Good Witch) serves as a central theme. Their evolving friendship showcases the power of loyalty, forgiveness, and the ability to support each other in times of adversity.
4. Power and Corruption: The pursuit and abuse of power are depicted through the characters of the Wizard and Madame Morrible. It reflects how power can corrupt individuals and the consequences it can have on society.
5. Self-Discovery and Acceptance: The character of Elphaba goes through a journey of self-discovery, embracing her differences and learning to accept herself. It emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and staying true to one’s beliefs.
These are just a few examples, and “Wicked” offers multiple layers of symbolism that can be interpreted in various ways, enriching the experience for its audiences. If you haven’t seen it yet, go see it. It will move you and change your perspective of the antagonist. You thought you knew but you don’t. Everything is not as it seems. Inside all of us is a little wicked trying to get out.
The Wicked Collaboration and Giveaway that you didn’t know you need. American Girl and Wicked have partnered in celebration of 20 years. Thanks to the generosity of American Girl, I will be giving one lucky winner the American Girl Elphaba and Glinda costume sets! Just enter below! Good luck!!!