On Sunday, November 3, 2024, the State Theatre in Sydney, Australia, hosted the glamorous premiere of the highly anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, Wicked. This red-carpet event, part of the “Journey Through Oz” tour, saw stars such as Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo take the stage with grace, charm, and undeniable style. Fans, critics, and celebrities alike gathered to celebrate this monumental cinematic event that promises to bring the magic of Oz to the big screen in an unforgettable way.
The Australian premiere marks the start of a five-city international press tour, celebrating the movie’s upcoming release and honoring Wicked’s international fanbase. The press tour promises to deliver unique experiences for fans around the globe, with events designed to capture the essence of Oz and offer an exclusive look at the film. This highly-anticipated adaptation is set for its United States release on November 22, 2024, followed by a second installment in November 2025.
For Wicked’s Australian fanbase, the Sydney premiere was a momentous occasion. This theatrical retelling of the classic musical brings Wicked’s magic to a broader audience, including those who have followed the Broadway production for over two decades and new fans eager to experience the wonder of Oz.
Wicked Film Premiere in Sydney
The Wicked premiere event attracted some of the most renowned names in Hollywood. Ariana Grande, who stars as Glinda, and Cynthia Erivo, taking on the role of Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West), were the highlights of the evening. Alongside them, Jeff Goldblum (playing the Wizard), Ethan Slater (Boq), Marissa Bode (Nessarose), and Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero) added further excitement and prestige to the event.
In addition to the film’s stars, notable figures from the world of entertainment and fashion made their appearance. Media personality Lucia Hawley and Olivia Molly Rogers, former Miss Universe Australia, were among those who attended, further amplifying the event’s grandeur.
Ariana Grande brought Glinda’s elegance and charm to life with her stunning fashion choice for the night. She wore a voluminous Vivienne Westwood Couture pink gown, featuring a fitted bodice, statement sleeves, and a layered tulle skirt that swept across the floor. The gown’s romantic aesthetic was accentuated by Grande’s diamond butterfly choker and matching butterfly ring, adding a whimsical touch to her ensemble. Her sleek ponytail and delicate, understated makeup made her appearance all the more ethereal, captivating fans and photographers alike.
In perfect contrast to Grande’s pastel palette, Cynthia Erivo embodied the character of Elphaba with a striking black gown by Louis Vuitton. This bold, off-shoulder, strapless dress featured a sculptural bow, making a powerful visual statement. Her look was enhanced by a black-and-white choker, iridescent green sunglasses, and statement jewelry, channeling the mysterious allure of her character and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Wicked Cast interactions
As the evening unfolded, the cast members shared heartfelt insights into their experiences filming Wicked. Ethan Slater, who plays Boq, spoke warmly about the camaraderie shared on set. He described how the cast’s shared love for theatre created a supportive and creative environment, making the filming process not only enjoyable but truly inspiring. Slater praised his co-stars’ dedication, warmth, and undeniable talent, giving fans a glimpse of the strong bond that made this adaptation possible.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, this cinematic adaptation of Wicked presents a fresh, untold perspective on the witches of Oz, diving deep into the backstories of Glinda and Elphaba before they became iconic rivals. Chu’s direction promises to stay true to the enchanting narrative that captivated audiences on stage while adding a new layer of cinematic depth to the story. The film not only explores the magic of Oz but also delves into themes of friendship, rivalry, and the complex choices that shape these characters’ destinies.
Wicked Film Reactions
Fans of the stage production can look forward to an immersive cinematic experience, complete with breathtaking visuals, elaborate costumes, and an all-star cast bringing Wicked’s beloved characters to life. Glinda’s cheerful and optimistic outlook, contrasted with Elphaba’s complexity and depth, creates a narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Chu’s film adaptation is expected to amplify these dynamics, offering a richly layered portrayal of Oz that stays true to the spirit of the original musical.
The Sydney premiere set the stage for an epic release, bringing together stars, fans, and the timeless magic of Oz in a celebration that will be remembered by all who attended. For those who love Wicked, this is a cinematic experience not to be missed.
