‘Wicked’ Casts a Spell on Mumbai as the Musical Opens to a Standing Ovation: First Look (EXCLUSIVE)

“Namaste, Mumbai.”

Few would have expected Glinda’s opening words in "Wicked" to instantly win over the city, but that is exactly what happened on opening night at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. Director John Stefaniuk and his 100-plus member production team have brought one of the world’s most iconic musicals to Mumbai with remarkable flair. Running close to 2 hours and 50 minutes, the production stars Rebekah Lowings as Elphaba and Eve Shanu-Wilson as Glinda, anchoring a spectacular staging of the beloved musical.

For audiences already familiar with the "Wicked" universe, especially after the recent film adaptations directed by Jon M. Chu, the world of Oz feels instantly recognizable. The cinematic versions starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have reignited global interest in the story.

But the appeal of “Wicked” runs deeper. It is that unique blend of magic, mystery and fantasy built around a timeless story of good versus evil. From Judy Garland’s 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz” to the 2013 film “Oz the Great and Powerful” starring James Franco, the tale of Glinda the Good and Elphaba, the misunderstood “wicked” witch, has captivated audiences for generations.

What makes the stage production so thrilling is Stefaniuk’s meticulous attention to detail. The spectacle lies not just in the big moments but also in the transitions leading up to them. One standout sequence is the dramatic tornado scene in the second half. And of course there is the moment audiences wait for with bated breath: the soaring “Defying Gravity” number, whose climactic high note sends chills through the auditorium.

Much of the credit goes to the lead performers who carry these towering characters. Lowings’ Elphaba balances strength with vulnerability, while Shanu-Wilson’s Glinda brings charm and effervescent humor. Their chemistry shines in early scenes and musical numbers, particularly fan favorites like “Popular” and “For Good.”

Backing these performances is a spectacular production design that functions like clockwork. Set changes glide seamlessly, props move with precision and costume transitions unfold effortlessly. The backstage crew deserves enormous credit for executing such technical choreography night after night.

The audience response reflected the emotional connection the musical inspires. Some viewers sang along softly to “Defying Gravity,” while others drew comparisons to the legendary Broadway performances by Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, whose original Elphaba and Glinda pairing remains one of musical theatre’s most iconic duos.

More than just a musical, “Wicked” is a celebration of stagecraft and talent. In an era dominated by reels and TikTok clips, a live theatrical spectacle of this scale feels both rare and deeply rewarding.

"Wicked" is currently playing at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai from March 12 to March 29.