The first part of the film based on the musical is set to be released on the 22nd November.
Universal Pictures along with Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande and Jeff Goldblum have announced The Journey Through Oz tour, which will see five cities being transformed into different parts of Oz to celebrate the upcoming release of the first part of Wicked in November.
The tour will feature four one-of-a-kind premiere events, with each city transforming into a dazzling, immersive tribute to a key location in the film. The global tour, which will also include a special screening and event in New York City on November 14,will reimagine the following iconic sets from Wicked’s land of Oz:
Munchkinland in Sydney, Australia – Experience the whimsical charm and vibrant beauty of Munchkinland at Sydney’s renowned State Theatre. Sunday 3 November, 2024.
Shiz University in Los Angeles, California – Step into the soaring, ornate academic halls of Shiz University at the iconic Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Saturday 9 November, 2024.
The Enchanted Forest in Mexico City, Mexico – Explore the mystical, shadowed, arboreal magic of the Oz’s Enchanted Forest at Mexico City’s celebrated Auditorio Nacional. Monday 11 November 11, 2024.
Ozdust Ballroom in New York City, New York –A special screening will be followed by an event at the renowned Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), featuring a re-creation of the film’s glamorous Ozdust Ballroom. Thursday 14 November, 2024.
Emerald City in London, United Kingdom – Discover the shimmering jewel of Oz, the capital city, with it towering, gilded architecture and thrilling sights, at the legendary Royal Festival Hall. Monday 18 November, 2024.
Further details on how people will get the opportunity to experience the event have yet to be revealed.
During the tour, Erivo and Grande will be joined at various stops by their fellow cast members including Oscar® winner Michelle Yeoh, pop culture icon Jeff Goldblum, Emmy nominee Jonathan Bailey, Marissa Bode, Tony nominee Ethan Slater, Emmy nominee Bowen Yang and Bronwyn James.
Before Dorothy, before the flying house, and before the yellow brick road, there was Elphaba and Galinda. Born with emerald-green skin, Elphaba is smart, fiery, misunderstood and possesses extraordinary talent. When circumstances force her to room with the bubbly blonde and exceptionally popular, Galinda, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships. This is the story of The Wizard of Oz reimagined.
Directed by Jon M. Chu (In the Heights), the film will feature a screenplay by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman ( who wrote the book for the musical).
As with the musical, the film is based on Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: Life & Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. It will feature many of the songs from the musical, which were written by Stephen Schwartz.
The second part of the film will be released on the 21st November 2025.