Review: the Wicked musical has landed in Singapore – and it left me in awe.
When it comes to the Wicked musical opening in Singapore, its reputation precedes it. And the recent release of the Wicked movie only added to my bubbling anticipation. Pleasingly, it lived up to my expectations – as well as the crowd’s – garnering plenty of standing ovations on opening night.
In case you haven’t heard, Wicked is one of the most successful and beloved musicals in the world. More than 20 years since its Broadway premiere, this musical has won over 100 major awards, including a Grammy Award, an Olivier Award, and three Tony Awards. Having been staged in 16 countries, from Japan to Mexico, it has now landed in Singapore for the third time. Based on Gregory Maguire’s incredibly successful novel, Wicked features music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, with a book by Winnie Holzman.
Wicked musical Singapore review: A captivating journey through Oz
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth watching the Wicked musical in Singapore when you’re already planning to watch both movies, it’s a resounding yes from me. While the movie was incredible, watching the Wicked musical live in all its glory was a real sight to behold.
From the moment the show began, I knew I was in for something special. There’s something undeniably magical about witnessing this epic story unfold in real time on stage. With a dazzling set design, stunning costumes, and phenomenal performances, the live show takes the tale of Oz to a whole new level.
The musical treats us to a fresh perspective that delves into the lives of Elphaba and Glinda. And it was packed with so much excitement and drama that 2 hours and 45 minutes flew by. Zoe Coppinger (Elphaba) and Courtney Monsma (Glinda) portrayed their characters with incredible depth and nuance, and unmatched vocals to boot (I’d say they were neck-and-neck!). Their friendship and rivalry brought new layers of emotion that left me in awe – and yes, I teared up at certain moments.
Warning: major spoilers ahead, especially if you’re not already familiar with the story of The Wizard of Oz.
My favourite songs of the show
The way some viewers sang along with Elphaba in Defying Gravity gave me goosebumps (in a totally good way), and I found myself mouthing along at some parts too. It was truly the most iconic song of the Wicked musical. The cheers were the loudest after this showstopping number – and for good reason: Zoe Coppinger blew us away with her unbelievable vocals.
An underrated number that gave me all the feels was One Short Day. The actors went all out for this flashy, emerald-hued extravaganza, and something about this exuberant rendition felt so electrifying to me – it actually made me want to spend a day in Emerald City. I also had a green dress on that night, so I reckon I’d fit right in…
While I patiently await my invite from the Wizard, can we talk about the spicy number that’s As Long As You’re Mine? If One Short Day was electrifying, this was intoxicating. The tension and longing expressed between Elphaba and Fiyero were incredible. The way this played out without any fancy choreography (it was just them kneeling on the ground and singing to each other) or fancy backgrounds (save for a mystical mist around them) only served to draw our attention to their expressions and voices, which overflowed with emotion. And yes, there was a kiss at the end.
A hint of future Oz
It’s easy to miss the yellow brick road in part two of the show if you aren’t looking for it – when Glinda talks about the girl who took Nessa’s shoes, you’ll notice the iconic yellow brick road in the background. Dorothy doesn’t make an appearance, but you’ll hear her protest when she’s trapped by Elphaba for wearing Nessa’s shoes.
The Wicked musical shows the final transformation of the Tin Man and Scarecrow, but the Cowardly Lion’s final form isn’t revealed. In case you were wondering, the lion cub that Elphaba and Fiyero saved will go on to become the Cowardly Lion, due to the spell that Elphaba cast while trying to save him.
Side note: I’d love a musical showing the rest of the story, from the Cowardly Lion seeking his courage to Dorothy’s journey to see Glinda!
At the end of the day, Wicked is a musical that truly lives up to its reputation – and it’s worth every standing ovation it receives. So, if you haven’t already, get your tickets to the Wicked musical’s Singapore show, and get ready to be transported to the world of Oz, where friendship, love, and magic take centre stage.
Wicked musical Singapore
Show dates: 19 March to 27 April 2025, Tuesdays to Thursdays at 8pm; Fridays at 2pm (only 18 Apr) and 8pm; Saturdays at 2pm and 8pm; Sundays at 1pm and 6pm
Ticket price: $68 to $300 (excluding booking fee), book here
Venue: Sands Theatre, B1-69/70 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018971
