Like a comet pulled from orbit as it passes the Sun, we have been forever changed by the music of Wicked. Since its debut in 2003, this Broadway musical has brought to life the “true story” of the Wicked Witch of the West, capturing the hearts of theater enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. For many, the journey into Oz began well before stepping foot in a theater; the soundtrack, featuring unforgettable performances by original stars Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, became anthems sung in bedrooms and school halls. The combination of soaring melodies and poignant lyrics created a cultural phenomenon underscored by its fresh perspective on friendship, identity, and rebellion.
With the release of Universal Pictures’ Wicked and Wicked: For Good—a highly anticipated sequel—the beloved story and its music continue to evolve. Now, we welcome Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande into the fold, who are breathing new life into the complex friendship between Elphaba and Glinda. As younger generations discover the lessons of individuality and resilience, the music of Wicked resonates more than ever.
Act I Highlights from Wicked
Act I greets audiences with many of the show’s more iconic numbers including “Popular,” “What Is This Feeling?,” “One Short Day,” and “Defying Gravity.” These songs highlight the developing identities of both Elphaba and Glinda, but anticipation builds for the emotional depth expressed in Act II. In this act, we encounter powerful duets such as “For Good” and the evocative “No Good Deed,” which explore the intricacies of their friendship and the sacrifices that come with it.
New Songs for a New Era
Original composer Stephen Schwartz has enriched the film with two new songs: “No Place Like Home,” performed by Elphaba, and “The Girl in the Bubble,” sung by Glinda. These additions aim to deepen the characters’ narratives within the context of their journey. Schwartz’s influence was pivotal from the inception of Wicked, persuading Universal executives to adapt Gregory Maguire’s novel into a musical. His collaboration with My So-Called Life creator Winnie Holzman resulted in a richly woven narrative centered around Elphaba and Glinda—initially an unexpected focus given Glinda’s minor role in the source material.
Act II Gems in Wicked: For Good
“Every Day More Wicked” – Entire Cast
The second act begins with a new refrain: “Every day more wicked,” a potent reminder of Elphaba’s transformation into the Wicked Witch. This line, associated with themes of fear and misunderstanding, cleverly sets the tone for the evolving dynamics between the characters and society’s view of them.
“Thank Goodness / I Couldn’t Be Happier” – Glinda and Madame Morrible
In a layered examination of Glinda’s public persona versus her personal turmoil, this song serves as a vehicle for her character development. Schwartz ingeniously uses vocal techniques to contrast Glinda’s public facade and her intimate struggles, offering insight into her yearning for authenticity amidst societal expectations.
“No Place Like Home” – Elphaba
In the first of the new songs, Erivo’s Elphaba reflects on her beloved yet unwelcoming homeland. A powerful sneak peek was shared during NBC’s musical special, establishing a deep emotional connection as Elphaba grapples with her identity and societal rejection.
“The Wicked Witch of the East” – Nessarose, Elphaba, Boq
This poignant confrontation between sisters, Nessa and Elphaba, unravels layers of frustration and longing. The musical explores Nessa’s bitterness while emphasizing her complexity beyond her disability, rooting her narrative in emotional depths rather than solely external attributes.
“Wonderful” – The Wizard of Oz, Glinda, Elphaba
This track offers a unique tonal departure, reflecting the Wizard’s rise to power with a distinctly American sound, contrasting with the broader musical landscape of Wicked. Through clever lyrics, Schwartz encapsulates the Wizard’s manipulative character within the fantastical setting of Oz.
“I’m Not That Girl” (Reprise) – Glinda
While Elphaba’s earlier rendition of this song captures her unrequited love story, Glinda’s reprise presents a poignant reflection of her own heartache. This emotional parallel threads through the musical, highlighting the sacrifices made by both characters for love.
“As Long As You’re Mine” – Elphaba and Fiyero
The darkly romantic ballad signifies a pivotal turn in Elphaba’s journey, encapsulating her acceptance of love and associated consequences. The line “for the first time, I feel Wicked” ambiguously represents her internal conflict and the joy that comes with embracing her true self.
“No Good Deed” – Elphaba
This song underscores Elphaba’s most desperate moments, marrying anxiety with a complex composition that showcases Schwartz’s classical influences. The evolving introspection within the lyrics highlights themes of altruism and the profound impact of each decision made.
“March of the Witch Hunters” – Boq and Cast
In a powerful moment, Boq galvanizes the crowd against Elphaba, expressing his bitterness and vengeance through song. This overture reveals societal pressures magnifying individual grievances, turning characters into avatars of broader themes of fear and hatred.
“The Girl in the Bubble” – Glinda
This reflective piece marks a critical moment for Glinda, as she contemplates her own narrative and legacy. The song emphasizes her evolution from a superficial persona to a true embodiment of Glinda the Good, showcasing the desire for authenticity amid societal lies.
“For Good” – Elphaba and Glinda
As the emotional crescendo of both Wicked and its sequel, “For Good” speaks to the profound impact of friendship and personal growth. The dual meanings of the title—both about positive transformation and finality—add layers of emotional richness to the farewell shared by the characters.
Wicked: For Good opens in theaters this weekend! Check out the official movie website for Wicked: For Good right here.