Why you should have a Wicked time and visit one of the longest standing musicals on the West End
Fancy a trip to London’s West End? It’s a smart choice – with the capital’s theatre scene selling more than 14 million tickets last year alone. Yet, it can be tough to decide what to see. Whether you are a seasoned theatre-goer with a keen eye on everything that is happening in this world, an occasional visitor or a complete novice, there’s bound to be something to suit.
If you’re stuck, there’s one show that deserves to be on every bucket list: Wicked.
Why?
Because the numbers speak for themselves: Wicked is now into its 12th year on the West End and has just become the 15th longest running show in London theatre history. With 4,500-plus performances playing out to an audience of more than eight million people in London alone – and an audience of more than 50 million worldwide – it’s fair to say that it has been phenomenally popular. It has also earned more than 100 international awards, including 2 Olivier Audience Awards, nine WhatsOnStage Awards and an Evening Standard Theatre Award.
Because it’s a great story: Wicked’s story is clever, good fun and genuinely inspirational. It’s a great twist on the Wizard of Oz – showing us how Elphaba became the Wicked Witch of the West and how appearances may be deceptive when it comes to the Witches of Oz (no spoilers here!). There’s a richness and depth that really rewards fans of the Wizard of Oz – but in a way that doesn’t freeze out people whose memory of the old classic has faded a little.
Because you’ll love the music: Every great musical needs some great musical numbers – and Wicked doesn’t disappoint on this score. Defying Gravity is probably the biggest of the songs – but you’re likely to have For Good and I’m Not That Girl in your head for days after too.
Because it’s fun for all the family: It’s not always easy to keep the little ones entertained – especially if you’d like an activity that you’d still enjoy too. Wicked offers that happy medium – with great visuals and staging that will capture the imagination of every age group.
Because you can bag a bargain: Wicked might be top-class entertainment but it doesn’t come with a high end price to match. Tickets start at just £19.50, which is proof that you don’t need to break the bank to have a great time out at the West End.
Because it’s a great experience: Wicked is actually due to tour the UK in 2018 and while that will take the magical adventure to new places, nothing quite beats the thrill of seeing a live show at the West End. The Apollo Victoria Theatre is a spectacular venue – and is conveniently located next to Victoria Station too. Repeat visitors will be rewarded with the chance to see a new cast, with a fresh line-up taking to the stage this summer.
Book a trip to Wicked and you’re (spell)bound to have a great time.