Wicked: Musical synopsis

Wicked synopsis

Synopsis: Wicked the Musical.

Set in the mythical Land of Oz long before Dorothy’s arrival, “Wicked” reveals the hidden history between two young women: the radiant and popular Glinda and the misunderstood outcast Elphaba, born with emerald-green skin. Though polar opposites in appearance and temperament, they begin as reluctant roommates at Shiz University and gradually develop a deep, transformative bond.

The Origins of Elphaba.

Elphaba’s life begins in secrecy and sorrow. Her green skin, the result of her mother drinking a mysterious green elixir, instantly makes her an object of fear. She arrives at Shiz with her younger sister, Nessarose, who uses a wheelchair. Nessarose receives special care from the university’s headmistress, while Elphaba is left isolated and ostracized.

Despite her outsider status, Elphaba is intellectually gifted and fiercely loyal. Her isolation begins to crumble when she forms an unlikely friendship with her bubbly, self-absorbed roommate Galinda (later Glinda). Though they clash at first, their growing respect is cemented through shared experiences and emotional vulnerability.

Ambition and Betrayal in the Emerald City.

Elphaba dreams of meeting the legendary Wizard of Oz, hoping he can help her become "normal." When she finally travels to the Emerald City, she uncovers a dark truth: the Wizard is a fraud who exploits her unique powers for political gain. Disillusioned, she rebels, stealing a sacred book of spells, and is swiftly branded the Wicked Witch of the West.

• Elphaba escapes the city, hunted and vilified by the Wizard’s regime.
• Her rebellion marks a turning point, from student to fugitive sorceress.

Love, Loss, and Transformation.

Amid the chaos, Elphaba’s feelings for Fiyero, a charming prince, intensify. Though he initially dates Glinda, Fiyero begins to question his path and ultimately chooses Elphaba. Their love becomes a refuge as the world turns hostile.

Meanwhile, Nessarose becomes the Governor of Munchkinland. In a desperate act to win the love of Boq, a Munchkin who secretly adores Glinda, she casts a spell gone horribly wrong. Boq's body begins to fail, and to save him, Elphaba transforms him into the Tin Woodman.

The Fall of the Wicked Witch.

When a tornado strikes, it brings Dorothy and her house crashing into Oz, landing fatally on Nessarose. Grief-stricken, Elphaba blames herself, unaware that Dorothy's arrival was orchestrated to draw her out. The Wizard and his guards close in.

In a final confrontation, Fiyero sacrifices himself to protect Elphaba, only to be tortured. Elphaba uses her magic to save him, turning him into the Scarecrow—forever free from pain. Knowing her time is up, Elphaba stages her own death in a climactic moment of theatrical illusion.

The Secret Ending.

Before disappearing, Elphaba pleads with Glinda to uphold the lie of her death. Glinda, now the Good Witch of the South, agrees, ensuring Elphaba’s survival remains secret. The two women part with unspoken sorrow, having changed each other forever.

Elphaba leaves Oz in silence, escaping into the unknown with Fiyero. The world believes she is gone, but her legend remains.

Questions and Answers.

What is the main theme of "Wicked"?

The musical explores the complexity of good and evil, challenging black-and-white morality through personal growth and perspective.

Who becomes the Tin Woodman in "Wicked"?

Boq, originally a Munchkin in love with Glinda, is transformed into the Tin Woodman by Elphaba.

Why is Elphaba called the Wicked Witch?

She is labeled wicked by the Wizard’s propaganda after refusing to aid his deceitful regime.

What causes the rift between Glinda and Elphaba?

Their differences in ideals and love for Fiyero strain their bond, though mutual respect remains.

Does Elphaba die at the end of "Wicked"?

No, she fakes her death and escapes Oz with Fiyero, now transformed into the Scarecrow.

Wicked Lyrics: Song List

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