Wicked is flying back to Liverpool Empire this month

The untold story of the witches of Oz is set to amaze audiences at the Liverpool Empire once again later this month.

Wicked is loved by fans across the world and has earned more than 100 global awards including three Tonys, two Oliviers and a Grammy.

Based on the acclaimed novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked imagines a beguiling backstory to the lives of L. Frank Baum’s beloved characters, and reveals the magic that shaped the destinies of two unlikely friends.

Following the story of Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West) and her friend Glinda the Good, you will be transported to the magical land of Oz in a musical that has been POPULAR for over 20 years.

The new UK tour stars Sarah O’Connor (Glinda) and Laura Pick (Elphaba).

Featuring iconic songs like Defying Gravity, Popular, and For Good, Wicked is coming to the Liverpool Empire from Thu 20 Jun – Sun 14 Jul 2024.

Not only is the show known for its incredible story and phenomenal soundtrack, but also its themes of “being true to yourself”, “not judging a book by its cover”, and “it’s ok to be different”, is the reason why Wicked has won the hearts of everyone who’s sat beneath the The Clock of the Time Dragon.

Sarah said:

“Wicked was before its time. It’s one of the reasons it’s been running on Broadway for 20 years and nearly the same length here. Thank God these things are being discussed now and acceptance is being normalised, be it disabilities, looking different or feeling different.

“We’re putting a mirror in front of people and going, “How are you treating these people? How are you making other people feel?”

NEW WICKED TOUR COMPANY. Photo by Matt Crockett

Laura said:

“You can come to Wicked and think, “What a good show, what amazing songs,” but if you take in those storylines, it can make you think.”

Speaking about the chemistry between the two on stage, Laura said:

“It helps that me and Sarah are getting on like a house on fire. That strengthens the bond between the characters. It makes any scene that’s feisty more real because you care about each other.

“When it comes to friendships in general, you can be friends with someone growing up and then never speak to them again.

“I’ve got someone I was inseparable from at school and then we just grew apart. Wicked explores how friendships can grow with age or circumstance.”

So what exactly made the Witch of the West so… Wicked? Find out at the Liverpool Empire from Thu 20 Jun – Sun 14 Jul 2024.