The Broadway musical adaptation of the Wonderful World of Oz kept the Wicked team busy for nearly two years. The team, consisting of costume designer Paul Tazewell, hair and makeup artist Frances Hannon, and production designer Nathan Crowley, poured their hearts and souls into bringing the American fairy tale to life once again. The musical, based on Gregory Maguire’s revisionist novel, reimagines the story of the Wicked Witch of the West and has been a staple in the world of musicals for over two decades.
Tazewell, known for his work on productions like Hamilton and The Wiz Live!, was thrilled to take on the challenge of designing the costumes for Wicked. He aimed to create a timeless yet accessible look for the characters that would resonate with audiences for years to come. Drawing inspiration from the original illustrations of The Wizard of Oz, Tazewell crafted whimsical and playful designs that captured the essence of the story.
Hannon, the makeup and hair artist, faced the task of creating the perfect shade of green for Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. After much trial and error, she discovered a bespoke eyeshadow that provided the right hue and stayed consistent in various lighting conditions. She also worked on creating intricate nail designs for Elphaba that reflected the character’s journey and transformation throughout the film.
Crowley, the production designer, delved into the world of Oz, creating sets that were both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. From the colorful and vibrant Munchkinland to the majestic Emerald City, Crowley aimed to transport the audience into a magical realm that felt real and immersive. He emphasized the importance of practical effects and set design in creating a sense of nostalgia and emotion that CGI alone cannot achieve.
The team’s collaboration with director Jon M. Chu and the cast members, including Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, led to the creation of a visually captivating and emotionally engaging adaptation of the classic story. Through their dedication to detail and storytelling, the Wicked team brought the Wonderful World of Oz to life once again, enchanting audiences with their reimagined vision of the beloved tale.
