The long-running Broadway hit “Wicked” celebrates its 15th anniversary since its premiere on October 30, 2003. With over 6,263 performances to date, a special anniversary concert titled “A Very Wicked Halloween” will take place on October 29, featuring members of the original cast and star-studded guest performers. Let’s take a look back at this Broadway phenomenon and the exciting lineup for this special celebration.
Wicked’s 15th Anniversary Concert – “A Very Wicked Halloween”
Major U.S. broadcaster NBC announced that “A Very Wicked Halloween,” the 15th anniversary concert of Wicked, will be held at the Marquis Theatre on October 29, 2018 (Monday). The original leading duo — Idina Menzel as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda, the Good Witch of the South — will reunite on stage for the first time in nearly 14 years.
Special guests will include Ariana Grande, Pentatonix, and members of the current Wicked cast, making it a spectacular celebration worthy of one of Broadway’s most beloved shows.
Ahead of the broadcast, a pre-celebration event was held featuring performances by Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, who sang Wicked’s iconic numbers “Defying Gravity” and “Popular.”
Wicked’s Signature Songs: “Defying Gravity” and “Popular”
Nominated for Best Original Score at the 2004 Tony Awards, Wicked features a collection of unforgettable songs, including “Defying Gravity,” “The Wizard and I,” “Popular,” and “For Good.” Among them, the soaring anthem “Defying Gravity” and the playful “Popular” are two of the most cherished and widely recognized songs from the show. Here are videos of the original Broadway cast performing these iconic numbers.
Idina Menzel as Elphaba – “Defying Gravity”
“Defying Gravity,” performed by Elphaba, the green-skinned witch and the show’s central character, is the musical’s most powerful and emotional moment. Idina Menzel originated the role in 2003 and played it until January 8, 2005, earning the 2004 Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical.
The song’s soaring melody and empowering message have made it one of the most iconic anthems in Broadway history.
Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda – “Popular”
The bubbly and comedic number “Popular” is sung by Glinda, the Good Witch of the South, who was once Elphaba’s schoolmate and friend.
Kristin Chenoweth, who originated the role from October 30, 2003, to July 18, 2004, brought her signature mix of charm, wit, and powerhouse vocals to the character, making her performance one of Broadway’s most memorable. Her portrayal of the sweet but image-conscious witch became a defining moment in her career.
In 2013, pop superstar Ariana Grande covered “Popular,” introducing the song to an even wider audience around the world.
Wicked – 2017 to 2018 Highlights
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