Wicked, the movie based on the acclaimed long running musical hit theaters last month and the world is in love. The musical, which serves as a prequel to the events of the Wizard of Oz, has a rich lore, beloved characters, enchanting visuals, and timeless music that could provide an immersive new theme park experience within Universal Orlando Resort. The Lost Continent area of Islands of adventure is currently sitting with unutilized potential. Could Shiz and the Emerald City be the perfect replacement?
From Lost to Wonderful
Creating a land based on Wicked would have to be distinctly Wicked and not draw inspiration from the 1939 film due to copyrights. However, a new, fully immersive land called The World of Wicked could be introduced at Universal Islands of Adventure. The land would recreate the vibrant and magical landscapes of Wicked, capturing key settings like: Shiz University (the school where Elphaba and Glinda meet) and The Emerald City. The architecture would be inspired by the musical’s whimsical, steampunk-infused aesthetics utilized in both the movie and on the stage.
Image: Universal Pictures
Wickedly Popular Rides
While a broomstick flying coaster themed to the Wicked Witch of the West is already being utilized at Warner Bros. Movie World’s Wizard of Oz-themed land, there are some attractions that could be included in a Wicked land that would be unique to the story.
First, a Defying Gravity attraction would be the perfect way to incorporate thrills into the land. This could be a coaster or technologically advanced dark ride. Perhaps, it could even be a mix of both. Whatever the design, it would have to feature sudden drops and moments of weightlessness where riders can defy gravity on their own.
Image: Universal Pictures
A classic dark ride exploring the Emerald City would also be a great addition. This could be a family-friendly attraction showcasing the glitz and glamor of the most wonderful city in Oz. It could include scenes from the wizard’s chamber, the Wiz-o-Mania show, and more. The ride vehicles could resemble Glinda’s bubble and be set in a story in which Glinda herself shows the guests around the city.
Dancing Through Life in Oz
Of course, rides are not the only attractions that would fit well in a Wicked-themed land. Live shows and meet and greets would be the perfect addition to help bring the magical world to life.
First, there are several possibilities for a live shows within a Wicked land. The show could be a sing-along featuring music from the movie. Another possibility could be a musical special effect show showing how the actors in the movie performed stunts while singing. This could even draw audience participation. Finally, an entirely new immersive musical experience could be performed by the people of the Emerald City.
Image: Universal Pictures
Street performances and meet and greets are also key to making the world of Wicked come to life. Glinda, Elphaba, Fiyero, Nessa Rose, and more could be included in these meets and greets. Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Singapore have already offered beautiful meet and greets featuring Elphaba and Glinda. Impromptu street performances of Dancing Through Life or One Short Day would be a great way to make guests feel as if they are walking through the halls of Shiz or the streets of the Emerald City.
Thank Goodness for Good Food
The food of the land would be as whimsical and magical as the land of Oz. Quick service locations could include Glinda’s Cocktails and Mocktails featuring the prettiest and tastiest beverages in all of Oz. It’s All Green, which could be a salad bar offering vegetarian and vegan friendly options. Finally, the Shiz Commissary could include several family friendly options modified with a dash of magic. The restaurant could look just like the cafeteria in the What is This Feeling scene of the movie.
There is currently one attraction still open on the Lost Continent area of Islands of Adventure. Mythos is incredibly popular and has even won theme park restaurant of the year. The restaurant should be incorporated into any new themed land. It could fit perfectly in a Wicked land and all it would need is some slight décor upgrades and a new name. The Oz Dust Ballroom would be the swankiest place to grab a delicious bite. Mythos’ menu could stay the same as well. It would be an easy change while maintaining a fan favorite dining spot.
Image: Universal
Integrating Wicked into the unused areas of Islands of Adventure would create a magical, story-driven experience that appeals to fans of the musical and general park-goers. It would even fit within the overall theme of Islands of Adventure as it is based off the book by Gregory Maguire. Overall, the blend of thrilling rides, immersive experiences, and themed dining would make The World of Wicked a place all guests want to spend One Short Day.
Should Universal bring Wicked to Islands of Adventure? How would you like to see Wicked incorporated? Let us know by leaving us a comment below or on our Facebook page.
