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If you fall into the category of being A) obsessed with Wicked (2024) and B) a theme park junkie, we have a lot to discuss.
Adapted from the beloved stage musical, Wicked is shaping up to be one of 2024’s most significant box office triumphs. With Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the film dives into the origin stories of Oz’s most iconic witches, set against one of musical theater’s most legendary soundtracks.
Wicked Casts Box Office Magic
Credit: Universal Pictures
Wicked didn’t even need to wait for its official release to start turning heads. The film amassed $19.2 million during preview screenings alone, recouping over 10% of its budget right out of the gate. Critics have showered praise on the performances of Erivo, Grande, and Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero. Even Gregory Maguire, the author of the original novel, expressed admiration for the cast, calling their portrayals “intimidatingly powerful.”
With such a reception, some things are inevitable. A sequel? Already in the works—Wicked Part Two is set to hit theaters in November 2025. Merchandising? Practically guaranteed. But what about a theme park attraction? That’s where the conversation gets exciting.
Why Wicked Deserves the Theme Park Treatment
Universal Pictures, which produced Wicked, is no stranger to building worlds within its theme parks. From the immersive Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Jurassic Park and the upcoming How to Train Your Dragon land, Universal has a knack for transforming cinematic universes into unforgettable park experiences.
Credit: Universal Pictures
Wicked offers all the ingredients for success. The vibrant, fantastical world of Oz—already a cultural touchstone—lends itself perfectly to theme park storytelling. Imagine the Yellow Brick Road winding toward a stunning Emerald City centerpiece. Picture rides inspired by Elphaba’s gravity-defying flight or Dorothy’s whirlwind journey to Oz. Interactive attractions could bring the Wizard’s palace or the Wicked Witch’s castle to life, offering an immersive experience akin to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
And let’s not forget Universal’s existing connections to Oz. Universal Studios Japan once hosted a condensed version of the Broadway show in its Land of Oz area. Meanwhile, Wicked-themed retail shops and character meet-and-greets with Elphaba and Glinda have popped up at Universal Studios Hollywood and Orlando Resort. Expanding this IP into a dedicated theme park land feels like a natural evolution.
Credit: Universal Pictures
Universal’s Epic Universe, currently in the final hours of construction ahead of its May 2025 opening, offers a prime opportunity. With expansion pads ready to go, why not let Wicked claim a spot? Its rich visuals, beloved characters, and musical allure could create a land as iconic as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Would you visit a Wicked-themed land?
