If you think you know the Wicked Witch, think again…

When Dorothy famously triumphed over the Wicked Witch, we only ever heard one side of the story. Gregory Maguire’s acclaimed 1995 novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, re-imagined the land of Oz, creating a parallel universe to the familiar story written by L. Frank Baum and first published as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz in 1900.

WICKED tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely friendship between two girls who first meet as Sorcery Students at Shiz University: the blonde and very popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl, Elphaba.

Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda’s unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power while Elphaba’s determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences for her future. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destinies as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.

Described as ‘a rich and triumphant feat of imagination and allegory’, Gregory Maguire’s brilliantly original story has been internationally acclaimed. The Toronto Star said: ‘while weaving a seductive web of fantasy and fun, Maguire also manages to score serious points about the nature of being an outsider in our society’.

The spectacular, multi award-winning stage adaptation, with music & lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Winnie Holzman, has become the most spellbinding and successful new musical in years. The Evening Standard raved: ‘a remarkable kaleidoscope of magical shocks, surprises and sensations, WICKED works like a dream.'

READ THE NOVEL THAT INSPIRED THE MUSICAL

Read the acclaimed bestseller* that inspired the musical. Gregory Maguire's novel WICKED - The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West* is published by Headline Review and available at all good retailers. Visit www.readingcircle.co.uk to fall under its spell.

Son of a Witch* - Gregory Maguire's eagerly awaited follow-up to WICKED - The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West* - is now also published by Headline Review and available from all good retailers.

*Recommended reading age 16+

HEAR THE BROADWAY CAST RECORDING

The GRAMMY ® award-winning Original Broadway Cast Recording is available on DECCA BROADWAY. It is available from Dress Circle (www.DressCircle.com) and all major music retailers or direct from the Ozdust Shop.

READ THE GRIMMERIE

This beautifully packaged keepsake is designed to resemble the Grimmerie, the ancient book of spells that Elphaba uses in the show. WICKED: The Grimmerie offers readers a behind-the-curtain peek at the musical, profiles of the original cast and creative team, and inside stories, with full-colour photographs throughout. Some of the irresistible special features include an Ozian glossary, spells, the shows libretto, an illustrated family tree, and a step-by-step look at how Elphaba gets green before each show. Everything fans need to relive their WICKED experience!

VISIT THE OZDUST SHOP