A new live concert event will present the Wicked films alongside a full orchestra performing their scores and songs, marking a fresh way to experience the popular musical adaptations.

A live concert presentation of the Wicked films has been announced, featuring a full orchestra performing the musical scores and songs from both Wicked (2024) and its sequel, Wicked: For Good. Audiences will watch screenings of the films while the orchestra performs music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, alongside the film scores composed by John Powell and Schwartz.

The 2024 Wicked film, directed by Jon M Chu, stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. It follows the two characters’ friendship at Shiz University before the events of The Wizard of Oz. The film went on to win two Oscars and broke box office records.

Its sequel, Wicked: For Good, premiered in November 2023, continuing the story and musical journey. Both films are adaptations of the original stage musical Wicked, which itself was adapted from Gregory Maguire’s novel.

The stage musical, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman, debuted on Broadway in 2003 before reaching London’s West End in 2006. It still runs at the Gershwin Theatre in New York and the Apollo Victoria Theatre in London, where it is preparing to mark its 20th anniversary later this year.

Details about venues and dates for the new concert experience have yet to be confirmed, but the announcement signals a growing trend of live orchestral accompaniments to film screenings.

This event will add a new dimension to the Wicked franchise, combining the cinematic presentation with the immediacy of live performance.