On Saturday 27 September 2025, the Apollo Victoria Theatre glittered emerald green to mark a remarkable milestone: 19 years of Wicked in the West End. After nearly two decades and over 13 million London theatregoers, this beloved show remains one of the capital’s most dazzling and enduring productions – and after seeing it five times myself, I can confirm that its magic never fades.

Based on Gregory Maguire’s best-selling novel and featuring music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman, Wicked imagines the untold story of the witches of Oz — long before Dorothy dropped in. Since opening in London in 2006 (when my son Diego was born), it has become the 10th longest-running show in West End history, scooping more than 100 major awards and inspiring a record-breaking film adaptation (Wicked: Part One opened in 2024, with Wicked: For Good set to follow in November 2025). This year’s anniversary gala also brought news that the production is booking into 2027, a testament to its unstoppable popularity.

From the first soaring notes of “Defying Gravity,” Wicked sweeps you into a world of friendship, rivalry and the blurred lines between good and evil. Emma Kingston’s electrifying Elphaba delivers powerhouse vocals that lift the roof, while Zizi Strallen’s Glinda balances dazzling comedy with genuine warmth. Together, their chemistry captures the bittersweet heart of the story — two young women whose bond is tested by ambition, politics and destiny. The supporting cast shines just as brightly, with Carl Man bringing effortless charm as Fiyero and Sarah Ingram’s Madame Morrible deliciously sly. Under Joe Mantello’s direction and Wayne Cilento’s staging, the show remains tight, thrilling and emotionally resonant even after nearly two decades.

The costumes, however, are what continue to leave me breathless on every visit. This time I attended the gala event with my friend and fashion designer Teresa Si, who made this visit extra special as we enjoyed commenting the outfits together.

Susan Hilferty’s Tony Award-winning designs are a masterpiece of theatrical artistry, and seeing them up close remains one of the great joys of this production. Over 2,000 individual costume pieces are in rotation, each one a marvel of colour, texture and construction. More than fifty skilled makers and stitchers work for over thirty weeks to create a single full set of costumes, from the towering Emerald City hats to the intricate boots and gloves. Many garments feature multiple fabrics layered together to create depth and movement, with pleats, hidden panels and subtle prints giving the illusion of shimmering magic under stage lights. Even the fabrics are treated in different ways to catch the light — some pieces are pleated for texture while others are patterned with faint metallic threads that only reveal themselves when the actors turn. The Emerald City looks like a living, breathing jewel box, every gown and coat glittering with trimmings and embellishments, while Elphaba’s iconic black dress is a study in shadowy elegance, combining lace, feathers and countless hand-sewn details to give her a witch’s silhouette that feels both regal and rebellious.

The 19th anniversary gala captured everything that makes Wicked extraordinary: a packed house buzzing with anticipation, a standing ovation that felt like a collective roar of gratitude, and a company clearly as thrilled to perform as the audience was to watch. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, Wicked remains a must-see London experience. It’s not just a musical; it’s a celebration of friendship, courage and the transformative power of theatre.

After 19 years, Wicked continues to defy gravity – and long may it fly.

Where to see it:

Apollo Victoria Theatre, Wilton Road, London SW1V 1LG

Booking now through 3 January 2027 – wickedthemusical.co.uk