Wicked Show Review: What Makes This Broadway Hit So Powerful

When you hear Wicked, a Broadway musical that reimagines the witches of Oz with heart, humor, and haunting songs, you’re not just hearing a show—you’re hearing a cultural moment. It’s not just another musical. It’s the story of two girls who become enemies, then friends, then legends. One is born green, judged before she speaks. The other is polished, popular, but lonely inside. Their journey isn’t about magic spells—it’s about being seen, misunderstood, and finally, choosing your own path. Broadway musicals, live theatre performances known for big songs, elaborate sets, and emotional storytelling like Wicked don’t just entertain—they make you feel something you didn’t know you were missing.

What sets Wicked apart from other hits like Hadestown, a folk-opera about love, loss, and the underworld that won multiple Tony Awards is how it balances spectacle with soul. The costumes are wild, the flying witches are jaw-dropping, but it’s the quiet moments—Elphaba singing "No Good Deed," Glinda realizing she’s been shallow—that stick with you. The music? It’s not just catchy. It’s layered. Every note builds on the last, pulling you deeper into their world. And unlike some shows that rely on flashy tech, Wicked’s power comes from its characters. You don’t need to know the original Wizard of Oz to get it. You just need to remember what it felt like to be the odd one out.

It’s no surprise Wicked has been running for over two decades. People don’t just see it once. They bring their kids. Their friends. Their parents. They come back. Why? Because it doesn’t feel like a performance. It feels like a conversation—about fairness, identity, and the cost of fitting in. Whether you’re a theatre newbie or someone who’s seen it five times, there’s always something new to notice: a glance, a pause, the way the stage lights shift when Elphaba finally stands tall. That’s the magic. Not the flying broomstick. The humanity.

If you’ve ever wondered why people still line up for tickets, or why Wicked keeps topping lists alongside Hamilton and The Lion King, now you know. It’s not just the songs. It’s the story. And it’s still speaking to people—right now, in 2025, in living rooms and theatres across the country. Below, you’ll find real reviews, deep dives, and comparisons that help you understand why this show isn’t just popular. It’s essential.