A Decade-Long Wait Ends: Wicked Flies Back to South Korea

After a 13-year hiatus, the spectacular musical phenomenon, Wicked, is set to enchant Korean audiences once again. the original Broadway production, celebrated as a true blockbuster, will grace the stage starting July 12th, promising a revival of its captivating storytelling and breathtaking visuals.

Behind the Emerald Curtain: lead Actresses Share their Insights

Kotni Monsma, embodying the beloved Glinda, and Sherry Adams, stepping into the complex role of Elphaba, recently participated in a press conference in Seoul. Both actresses were chosen in 2023 to headline the Wicked tour, commemorating the musical’s 20th anniversary on Broadway. The tour’s Korean leg follows triumphant runs in Australia and singapore.

Monsma lauded Wicked as a production brimming with exceptional elements, from its elaborate costumes and sets to its universally relatable narrative. Adams, who secured her role after a powerful audition performance of Defying Gravity, acknowledged Elphaba as one of the most demanding roles in the musical theater landscape.

The Enduring Appeal of Wicked: A modern Retelling of Oz

wicked reimagines the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz, exploring the formative years and unlikely friendship between Glinda, the popular and ambitious blonde witch, and Elphaba, the green-skinned witch with exceptional talent and unwavering passion. The musical delves into themes of prejudice, acceptance, and the complexities of good and evil.

Wicked is a story that can be sympathetic in any era and society.

Kotni Monsma, Actress playing Glinda

A Global Phenomenon: Wicked’s Unprecedented Success

As its Broadway debut in 2003, Wicked has captivated audiences worldwide. The musical has been performed in 16 countries, drawing over 70 million viewers and generating a staggering $6 billion in cumulative sales. This places it among the most successful musicals of all time, rivaling the likes of The Lion King and Phantom of the Opera.

Korean Audiences Embrace Wicked: A History of Success

Wicked has enjoyed considerable success in South Korea. The 2012 Korean premiere attracted 235,000 attendees over a five-month run, solidifying its status as a major hit. Subsequent Korean-language productions have collectively surpassed 900,000 viewers. The film adaptation released last year drew 2.2 million moviegoers in Korea, demonstrating the franchise’s continued popularity.

Spectacle and Song: The Hallmarks of Wicked

Wicked is renowned for its visually stunning stagecraft, including Glinda’s iconic entrance amidst a cascade of bubbles and Elphaba’s gravity-defying flight. The musical also boasts a memorable score, featuring beloved songs such as Popular, Defying Gravity, and For Good.

Adapting to the Times: Musical Nuances for a Modern Audience

David Young, the musical supervisor, who previously oversaw the 2012 Korean production, noted adjustments made to the musical’s tempo to align with contemporary tastes. This ensures that Wicked remains fresh and engaging for today’s audiences.

Anticipation Builds: Korean Audiences Eagerly Await Wicked’s Return

The cast expressed their excitement about performing for Korean audiences, known for their passionate recognition of musicals and high levels of engagement.The production team hopes to recreate the keen atmosphere of past performances.

I can’t forget the sight that the audience gathered like football fans as the last performance in 2012. I hope the audience will do so again.

David Young, Musical Supervisor

Performance Details: Dates and Locations

Wicked will be staged at the Blue Square Shinhan Card Hall in Seoul from July 12th to October 26th. Following the Seoul engagement,the production will move to the Busan Dream theater in November and the Daegu Keimyung Art Center in January of the following year.