Wicked
Columbus

Wicked: The Untold Story of Oz Comes to Columbus

Wicked premiered on Broadway at the Gershwin Theatre in October 2003 and has since become one of the highest-grossing musicals in theater history. Based on Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West," the musical reimagines the world of L. Frank Baum's Oz by telling the story before — and behind — the curtain of "The Wizard of Oz." At its heart is the unlikely friendship between Elphaba, a fiercely intelligent green-skinned woman rejected by society, and Glinda, a bubbly, popular blonde who craves acceptance. Their bond, tested by ambition, love, and the corrupting nature of power, ultimately sets both of them on the paths that will define their fates.

With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Pippin) and a book by Winnie Holzman, Wicked features a score that has become part of the Broadway canon. "Defying Gravity," the Act One finale in which Elphaba literally takes flight above the Emerald City, is one of the most iconic moments in modern musical theater. "Popular" — Glinda's hilariously self-assured makeover anthem — never fails to bring the house down, while "For Good," the duet in which Elphaba and Glinda acknowledge how they have changed each other, has become a standard for graduations, weddings, and tributes. Other standouts include "The Wizard and I," "What Is This Feeling?," "No Good Deed," and "Dancing Through Life."

The original Broadway production was directed by Joe Mantello with musical staging by Wayne Cilento, scenic design by Eugene Lee, costume design by Susan Hilferty (Tony Award winner), and lighting by Kenneth Posner. The national touring production faithfully recreates the Broadway experience, including the show's signature visual effects — the dragon that perches above the proscenium, the mechanical clock of the Time Dragon, Elphaba's gravity-defying flight, and the Emerald City's dazzling green transformation. The tour has played to millions of audience members in cities across North America since it first launched in 2005.

Wicked's cultural footprint expanded dramatically in 2024 with the release of the feature film adaptation, directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. The movie became a global box-office sensation, introducing the story to millions who had never seen the stage musical. That wave of new fans has driven extraordinary demand for the touring production, making Wicked one of the hottest tickets in live entertainment heading into 2027.

In Columbus, Wicked arrives at the Ohio Theatre for a generous three-week engagement running July 28 through August 15, 2027 — 24 performances that include evening shows and matinees. The Ohio Theatre, a magnificently restored 1928 movie palace in the heart of Downtown Columbus, is operated by CAPA and provides a grand setting perfectly suited to the spectacle of Wicked. As part of the Broadway in Columbus 2026-27 season, this engagement sits alongside The Phantom of the Opera and The Great Gatsby in one of the strongest touring lineups the city has seen in years.

How to Buy Wicked Columbus Tickets

Where can I buy Wicked tickets in Columbus?

Official tickets are available through Broadway in Columbus and Ticketmaster. Season subscription packages including Wicked and other 2026-27 shows are offered through CAPA. For verified resale tickets — especially useful when official inventory sells out — BigStub offers seats at every price level with a buyer guarantee, no hidden fees, and over 20 years of trusted service.

When is Wicked playing in Columbus?

Wicked plays 24 performances at the Ohio Theatre from Wednesday, July 28 through Sunday, August 15, 2027. The schedule typically includes evening performances Tuesday through Saturday and matinees on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. Check the listings below for specific dates and showtimes.

How long is Wicked?

Wicked runs approximately two hours and 45 minutes, including one intermission. The first act concludes with the iconic "Defying Gravity" sequence.

Is Wicked appropriate for children?

Wicked is generally recommended for ages 8 and up. The show contains some dramatic moments — including themes of prejudice, political manipulation, and the Wizard's deceptions — but there is no explicit content. Young children may find the flying sequences and some of the Wizard's scenes intense, but most school-age children enjoy the show thoroughly.

Are Wicked Columbus resale tickets legitimate?

When purchased through a reputable marketplace, absolutely. BigStub holds the highest Trustpilot rating in the ticket resale industry, with all sellers vetted and every purchase protected by a buyer guarantee. Given Wicked's surging popularity following the 2024 film release, resale tickets are often the best way to secure seats for sold-out or high-demand performances.

Where is the Ohio Theatre?

The Ohio Theatre is located at 39 East State Street in Downtown Columbus, Ohio. Parking garages are available within walking distance, and the venue is accessible by COTA public transit and rideshare services. The theater is also close to restaurants, hotels, and nightlife in the downtown area.

Wicked Columbus — Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wicked about?

Wicked tells the untold story of the witches of Oz before Dorothy's arrival. It follows the unlikely friendship between Elphaba, a misunderstood green-skinned woman who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the popular blonde who becomes Glinda the Good. Set against the backdrop of the Land of Oz, the musical explores themes of friendship, identity, prejudice, and the nature of good and evil.

When is Wicked in Columbus in 2027?

Wicked plays at the Ohio Theatre in Columbus from July 28 through August 15, 2027, with 24 scheduled performances including evening shows and matinees.

Where is Wicked performing in Columbus?

Wicked is at the Ohio Theatre, located at 39 East State Street in Downtown Columbus, Ohio. The Ohio Theatre is a beautifully restored 1928 movie palace operated by CAPA (Columbus Association for the Performing Arts).

What are the most famous songs in Wicked?

Wicked's score by Stephen Schwartz includes several beloved numbers: 'Defying Gravity' (the Act One finale), 'Popular' (Glinda's comedic anthem), 'For Good' (the emotional duet between Elphaba and Glinda), 'The Wizard and I,' 'What Is This Feeling?,' 'Dancing Through Life,' and 'No Good Deed.'

Is Wicked the same as the movie?

The touring stage production is the original Broadway musical that inspired the 2024 film. While the movie adaptation directed by Jon M. Chu follows the same story, the live stage experience features different creative elements including the iconic flying sequences, physical set transformations, and the energy of a live orchestra. Many fans who loved the film find the stage version an even more immersive experience.

How long has Wicked been on Broadway?

Wicked premiered at the Gershwin Theatre on Broadway in October 2003 and has been running continuously since, making it one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history. The national tour has been traveling across North America since 2005.

What is the Ohio Theatre like for seeing Wicked?

The Ohio Theatre is a 2,779-seat venue built in 1928 and restored to its original Spanish-Baroque grandeur. It features ornate plasterwork, a stunning ceiling, and excellent acoustics — providing a grand and intimate setting that enhances the spectacle of Wicked. The theater is operated by CAPA and is one of the premier touring venues in the Midwest.

Is parking available near the Ohio Theatre?

Yes. Several parking garages are located within walking distance in Downtown Columbus, including the State Street Garage. Street parking and surface lots are also available. The venue is accessible by COTA public transit and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.

Can I buy single tickets or do I need a season package?

Both options are available. CAPA offers season subscription packages for the Broadway in Columbus lineup, and individual show tickets for Wicked are sold separately through Broadway in Columbus and Ticketmaster. Resale tickets for individual performances are also available on BigStub.

What other shows are in the Broadway in Columbus 2026-27 season?

The 2026-27 Broadway in Columbus season includes The Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, The Great Gatsby, and other major touring productions. Season packages are available through CAPA and offer savings over individual ticket purchases.

Why is Wicked so popular right now?

Wicked has always been one of the top-grossing musicals in the world, but the 2024 film adaptation starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande introduced the story to millions of new fans globally. The movie's massive box-office success has driven unprecedented demand for the live stage production, making touring engagements like the Columbus run some of the hottest tickets in entertainment.

Is BigStub a safe place to buy Wicked tickets?

Yes. BigStub has operated for over 20 years and holds the highest Trustpilot rating in the ticket resale industry. All sellers are verified, all transactions include a buyer guarantee, and a dedicated customer service team is available to assist with any questions.