Wicked is currently the ninth longest-running West End show in history, having been a staple of London’s theatre scene since 2006, and it is not difficult to see why. Already beloved as a prequel of sorts to The Wizard of Oz, the musical has reached an even wider audience following its recent blockbuster film adaptations. Yet, despite how familiar the story has become, the West End production still feels every bit as magical as it should.
From the moment the curtain rises, we are transported to the land of Oz and introduced to a story that goes beyond the familiar tale of the Wicked Witch of the West. At its heart, Wicked is a story about an unlikely friendship, prejudice, ambition and the people who shape our lives.
The production makes an immediate impression with Glinda’s spectacular entrance. Emma Kingston glides onto the stage inside her enormous bubble, complete with actual bubbles surrounding her, creating an appropriately extravagant introduction for the “popular” witch of Oz. Kingston’s vocals are equally impressive, particularly in the opening number, “No One Mourns the Wicked”, where her voice soars effortlessly into its more operatic moments.
The entire cast is vocally exceptionally strong, but Yara Fabricante’s performance as Nessarose was a particular highlight for me. Her rendition of “The Wicked Witch of the East” was spellbinding, bringing an intensity and vulnerability to the character that made the scene particularly memorable.
The emotional centre of the production, however, comes in the finale. Emma Kingston and Zizi Strallen’s performance of “For Good” is absolutely breathtaking. The chemistry between the two performers makes the friendship at the heart of the story feel completely genuine, and as the ending unfolds, it is difficult not to become emotional alongside them. It is one of those moments where the audience is collectively holding its breath, and there were certainly plenty of tears around me.
Visually, the production is just as impressive. The enormous mechanical head of the Wizard is a spectacular piece of stage design, while the dragon above the stage, operated as a giant puppet, provides a constant reminder of the scale and theatricality of Oz. The costumes are equally striking, perfectly capturing the extravagant world of the production. The design of the Flying Monkeys in particular is genuinely terrifying, transforming what could easily have been a whimsical element of Oz into something much more sinister. The set transforms beautifully throughout the show, with the twinkling lights of the Ozdust Ballroom being a particular visual highlight.
Nearly twenty years after its West End opening, Wicked still feels every bit deserving of its place as a London theatre institution. With outstanding vocals, spectacular design and a genuinely moving story at its heart, it remains a production that can still cast a spell over an audience.
Wicked is booking until 30th May 2027 at Apollo Victoria Theatre with tickets available at Apollo Victoria Theatre London | The Home of Wicked the Musical
Reviewer: Zain Russell
Reviewed: 27th August 2026
North West End UK Rating: