Wicked is one of the most popular musicals of all time, winning multiple Tony Awards and captivating audiences around the world since debuting on Broadway in 2003. The musical, which tells the origin story of The Wizard of Oz from the perspective of the witches, has become a sensation for its spectacular production, beloved songs, and fun, heartwarming story.
For theatre fans in the UK, Wicked has been a must-see show since first arriving in London in 2006. The show continues to play in the West End at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, where it recently extended its booking through May 2023. But Wicked also frequently tours around the UK, so even if you don’t live in London, you may be able to catch this magical musical near you.
Currently Running Productions
There is currently one main production of Wicked running in the UK:
London
The West End production of Wicked premiered in September 2006 and quickly became one of the most popular shows in London’s theatre district. It originally played at the Apollo Victoria Theatre and then moved to the Garrick Theatre in 2015 before returning to the Apollo Victoria in 2019 following renovations.
As of October 2023, Wicked continues its open-ended run at the Apollo Victoria Theatre in London.Performances are scheduled Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 7:30pm, with matinee performances on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2:30pm. Tickets typically range from £25-£101.
The Apollo Victoria Theatre is located on Wilton Road in Westminster. The nearest Underground tube stations are Victoria and St. James Park.
UK Tour
While the London production plays an open-ended engagement, Wicked also frequently tours around the UK so those outside of London have opportunities to see the show. The musical just completed a tour from August 2021 through July 2022 that stopped in Manchester, Sunderland, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Plymouth, Hull, Bristol, Southampton, Oxford, Dublin, Leeds, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Wolverhampton, Cardiff, and Brighton.
Wicked will launch a new UK tour starting in December 2023. Specific tour dates and cities have not yet been announced but the tour is expected to visit major cities throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland through summer 2024.
Booking Tickets
If you want to see Wicked on its UK tour or open-ended West End run, here are some tips on booking tickets:
Plan Ahead
Given its popularity, Wicked often books up months in advance. If you want the best choice of dates, times and seat locations, plan to book your tickets 1-3 months in advance if possible. Waiting until the last minute may limit your options.
Midweek and Matinee Performances
You’ll typically find the best ticket availability and prices for midweek performances (Tuesday-Thursday) and matinees (Wednesday and Saturday afternoons in London; various times on tour). Friday and Saturday evenings are peak times and therefore more expensive and competitive.
Buy Directly from the Theatre
Purchasing directly from the theatre’s official website or box office is recommended over third party ticketing sites. This ensures you are getting legitimate tickets and gives you access to the best availability. Third party resellers sometimes overcharge or sell fraudulent tickets.
Look for Discounts and Deals
Options like premium tickets packages, early booking discounts, student rush tickets, and lottery drawings can help you score discounted tickets to Wicked in the UK. Check the show’s website regularly for special offers.
Use Membership Programs
Joining theatre membership programs like Nimax Theatre’s Access All Areas or ATG TheatreCard can provide access to special ticket deals and early booking periods for Wicked. There is a fee to join these programs but it may pay for itself in ticket savings.
Check Reselling Sites
While buying resale tickets comes with risks, reputable ticket resale marketplaces like Twickets can be an option for last minute deals. Only purchase from authorized resellers. Beware of scams on sites like Viagogo or Craigslist.
Try the Lottery, Rush or Standing Room
Wicked offers a daily in-person lottery, rush tickets when available, and standing room tickets on the day of the performance. This is a more risky option but you could get lucky and score very cheap last minute tickets. You have to play in person at the theatre.
What You Can Expect from Wicked
Once you’ve secured your Wicked tickets, here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect from the award-winning show:
Runtime
Wicked is two hours and 45 minutes, including one intermission.
Music
The lush, memorable score features songs like “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” “For Good” and “No One Mourns the Wicked.”
Story
This prequel to The Wizard of Oz focuses on the Wicked Witch Elphaba and Glinda the Good Witch’s unlikely friendship at school.
Set and Effects
The set uses a mechanical dragon and trap doors to create magic. Flying rigs enable actors to soar through the air.
Cast
A powerhouse cast of Broadway veterans brings the musical’s characters to life.
You can expect an unforgettable experience filled with magic, friendship, spectacle and fun with Wicked in London or on tour across the UK. Book your tickets today for the musical that casts Oz’s infamous witches in a whole new light!
Other Options for Seeing Wicked
If Wicked’s touring schedule or West End run doesn’t align with your plans, or if you are looking for cheaper tickets, here are a few other options to get your Wicked fix in the UK:
Regional Productions
Occasionally, smaller regional theatres in the UK will put on limited productions of Wicked. While rare, these can provide opportunities to see the show in unique, intimate venues. Check local theatre calendars for any upcoming productions.
Amateur Productions
Amateur theatre companies and drama schools in the UK have permission to stage limited runs of Wicked. Production quality vastly ranges with amateur shows, but tickets are very affordable. Search for any groups planning upcoming performances.
Cinema Screenings
To celebrate Wicked’s 15th anniversary on Broadway, the show was filmed live and screened in cinemas worldwide in October 2019. While not currently scheduled, additional anniversaries or events could lead to future cinema broadcasts in the UK.
Cast Recordings
Of course, you can always enjoy the music and story from Wicked by listening to the original Broadway cast recording or London cast recording. Allow your imagination to run wild as you hear the musical’s magnificent score.
Conclusion
Wicked is one of the most magical and popular musicals of all time, with an uplifting story, spectacular production and chart-topping songs. Fans in the UK have multiple opportunities to enjoy this classic show, either by booking tickets to the open-ended West End production at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre or by catching the musical on upcoming national tours across the country.
With creative wizardry, spellbinding music, and a touching story of friendship, Wicked consistently enchants audiences night after night. Be sure to secure your tickets well in advance to get the best seats at the best prices. Whether you fly off to London or travel somewhere closer to home, seeing Wicked live on stage is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Just follow the yellow brick road to musical theatre magic when Wicked returns to YOUR town!