RIYADH: The Royal Commission for Riyadh City, in collaboration with Broadway Entertainment Group, has announced that “Wicked: The Musical” has extended its run at the King Fahad Cultural Center until Jan. 3.
Khalid Alhazani, vice president of Riyadh Life Sector at RCRC, said: “This extraordinary production is a testament to RCRC’s commitment to providing world-class entertainment options for everyone, in line with the Saudi Vision 2030 Quality of Life program.”
It is the first time the production of “Wicked” has been on stage in the Middle East.
Musical directors turned to London’s West End when searching for the cast, including the leading roles of Elphaba and Glinda, for which 500 people turned up at audition.
Liz Koops, CEO of Broadway Entertainment Group, said: “It’s an honor to build on our legacy of bringing world-class productions, including ‘Phantom of the Opera,’ ‘Slava’s Snowshow,’ and now ‘Wicked,’ to Riyadh.
“Our close partnership with RCRC makes these landmark moments possible, and with ‘Wicked’ we’re once again raising the bar, inspiring audiences across Saudi Arabia with unforgettable theater.”
Since its debut in 2003, “Wicked” has played to more than 65 million theatergoers from over 130 cities in 25 countries.
In Riyadh, where the run has been extended for a further two weeks, the musical brings together more than 100 performers, along with crew and orchestra members.
Songs featured include the numbers “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” and “For Good.”
The production also features Tuesday Theme Nights which provide visitors with an opportunity to meet the cast and take selfies.
Stephen Schwartz, the composer and lyricist behind “Wicked,” previously said: “I’m delighted that ‘Wicked’ has come to Riyadh, where it hasn’t been seen before.
“This new production brings its own vitality and creativity, while continuing to tell our story of friendship, love, and having the courage to be true to yourself and stand up for what you believe in.”
