5 Things to Know Before Seeing Wicked in Detroit
We all know The Wizard of Oz story; ruby slippers, a yellow brick road, flying monkeys, and of course the witches of Oz. While Wicked offers the untold story of the witches of Oz. You’ll learn why Elphaba (Wicked Witch of the West) has green skin, and how she got that pointy hat. Plus, you’ll also learn how two unlikely friends end up becoming the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
Wicked returned to the Detroit Opera House in downtown Detroit this week, if you know me, you know I couldn’t miss seeing the show while it’s in town. You can check it out now through February 18th, 2024.
Purchase your tickets to see Wicked in Detroit at BroadwayinDetroit.com.
I have seen Wicked a whopping 13 times, in various cities, and while no performance will EVER come close to the first time I saw Wicked with the original company (Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel) I couldn’t be happier to tell you that this performance is definitely my second favorite. The entire company is incredible, but I have to shout out these two ladies not only are their vocals unreal, but they are performers!
Celia Hottenstein plays Glinda, and she is the BEST Glinda I have seen aside from Kristin Chenoweth. Her voice would make Ms. Chenoweth so incredibly proud.
Olivia Valli plays Elphaba and I have seen her in a few other shows (not Wicked) prior to this. I have always loved her performances and I truly think she excels as Elphaba. I was STOKED to see her in this role.
Before you head to the Detroit Opera House to see this spectacular performance here are 5 things to know before seeing Wicked that’ll make your experience more enjoyable.
5 Things To Know Before Seeing Wicked (from someone who has seen the show 13 times)
1. Play the Detroit Wicked Lucky Seats Digital Lottery
Let’s face it, tickets to see Wicked are expensive, but with the Wicked Lucky Seats digital lottery, you’re given the opportunity to win a pair of tickets with a price tag that will not break the bank. The digital lottery gives fans the chance to purchase a limited number of $31 tickets (including Lucky Seat fees) available per performance. To submit an entry for lottery tickets to Wicked in Detroit visit www.luckyseat.com.
2. Buy Your Detroit Parking Ahead of Time
The Detroit Opera House is located in the heart of downtown Detroit, and like any major city, parking is limited. I purchased nearby parking that was only a 3-minute walk from the doors, this was especially nice because the show finished at 10:30 pm and I was able to quickly make it back to my car.
3. Make Dinner Reservations
Yes, there are a plethora of restaurants near the Detroit Opera House with all types of cuisine and price points. However, Detroit is a happening place. If you have a specific restaurant in mind making a reservation will guarantee to get in and out in a timely manner. Even Eminem’s joint Mom’s Spaghetti had an HOUR alley wait (they do not take reservations you order in the alley).
4. Arrive Early to the Detroit Opera House
Typically arriving at least 30 minutes before the start of the show is a good enough amount of time to get through security, bag check, get your ticket scanned, go to the bathroom, and get to your seat. If you want food or merchandise these lines are substantially longer (I waited 45 minutes in the merch line) so be sure to plan accordingly. The first 15 minutes of the show are extremely important to the storyline. Plus, if you arrive late, the ushers may not let you in until the opening number is over (standard theatre etiquette).
4. Wicked is a Long Show, Plan Accordingly.
Wicked is a 2-hour and 45-minute show with a 15-minute intermission. I highly recommend using the restroom BEFORE the show starts. Especially since the first act is almost 90 minutes.
5. Watch The Wizard of Oz Before Going
You do not need to be a Wizard of Oz expert to appreciate Wicked. Even if you don’t watch it beforehand, you’ll still enjoy the show. That being said, if you are familiar with the music, storyline, and a few of the famous lines from the 1939 film, you’ll have a better connection with Wicked. Plus, you’ll “get” all the subtle, jokes, puns, and references when you see/hear them in the musical.
Wicked is playing at the Detroit Opera House in Downtown Detroit through February 18th, 2024, and will give you a newfound appreciation for the Wicked Witch of the West.
Fashion meets Food 