Hold Space For The WICKED Musical In Singapore, A Breathtaking Performance Broom-ing With Charm, Heart & Wonder

By Karmen on 27 Mar 2025

Digital Editor

Why were Cynthia and Ariana crying so much? And what made Ari do that iconic single finger hold? These two wildly talented performers are such Wicked nerds. They really, really love the WICKED musical, and we can finally find out just why. WICKED is now showing in Singapore at Sands Theatre.

The 4th longest-running show in Broadway history, WICKED is one of the most *Popular* musicals in the world and has nabbed over 100 major awards. As a self-professed musical junkie, I feel almost wicked that I've never seen this musical on stage until now. With all the hype surrounding it and high praise even from people who aren't musical people, expectations were high. Lo and behold, weren't they met. I have been changed for good!

WICKED The Musical In Singapore

Based on Maguire's novel, WICKED features music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, musical staging by Wayne Cilento and original direction by Joe Mantello. Featuring an outstanding Australian cast, WICKED in Singapore is produced by John Frost for Crossroads Live Australia, Marc Platt, Universal Pictures, The Araca Group, Jon B. Platt, and David Stone, and is presented in Singapore by Base Entertainment Asia.

Courtney Monsma gave a riveting performance as Glinda, nailing both her ditsy side and her underlying complexities. The crowd at Gala Night absolutely adored her, as they should, as she was so irresistibly charming and livened up the stage in every scene she was in. Glinda has lot of high notes in several musical numbers and Monsma hits them all like it's no biggie. Her effortlessly bright and strong vocals flow out smooth like butter and is imbued with plenty of Glinda's playful personality.

Photo from Justin Griffiths

Elphaba, one of the most demanding roles in Broadway, is deftly played by the wickedly gifted Zoe Coppinger. Initially, her Elphaba reads very strongly as a social outcast and she plays up her strangeness and witchy vibe to a tee. At the same time, her vulnerability and desperation for acceptance seeps through her tough exterior even when watching her several metres away from the stage.

Coppinger's rendition of Defying Gravity was so powerful, not just in terms of vocal technique but also emotional mastery, that the audience seemed to be overwhelmingly moved to the point where they started applauding in the middle of Elphaba's iconic roar. The clapping happened far too early for my taste, but it goes to show just how affecting her performance was.

Photo from Justin Griffiths

Rounding up the team were fantastic performances by the rest of the cast including Liam Head (Fiyero), Jennifer Vuletic (Madame Morrible), Chelsea Deanis (Nessarose) and Kurtis Papadinis (Boq) as well as the vibrant ensemble cast.

Photo from Justin Griffiths

Another thing worth noting about this musical is how pretty it is to look at! The costumes are exquisite, in particular the Emerald City citizens' over-the-top garments and Glinda's many dazzling dresses. Even Elphaba's all-black ensembles were swoon-worthy! The set design might also be one of the best I've seen. Every location change was so exciting and my eyes were darting all over the stage to take in the lights and props. The designers also created an illusion of depth that makes each "location" look much bigger than the actual floor space, at times even appearing to extend beyond the stage.

For those who have only watched the Wicked movie, we won't give away any spoilers on the second act of the musical which will be in part 2 of the film. Just know that it'll keep you excited to experience it again, but on the big screen.

In summary, it was a flawless, 10/10 production. It left nothing for me to nitpick at all, and I'm now firmly a fellow Wicked nerd. Hold my finger too, Ari!

WICKED-Themed Activities & Dining at Marina Bay Sands

To celebrate WICKED's Singapore season, Base Entertainment Asia is bringing the Land of Oz to life beyond the stage with a line-up of activations.

Photo from Marina Bay Sands

From now till 7 April, there will be an Exclusive Costume Display located outside Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer at The Shoppes. Shoppers can get a close-up look at all the intricate details of authentic WICKED stage costumes, including Glinda's gown and a never-before-displayed Madame Morrible ensemble.

Photo from Marina Bay Sands

Over at Black Tap, the menu will feature two deliciously over-the-top WICKED-Inspired CrazyShakes ($28++). If you're in the mood for a tipple, head to LAVO to sip on Limited-Edition Cocktails ($27++) inspired by the musical’s iconic characters. Both will be available from now till 27 April 2025.