‘Wicked’ Musical Kicks Off Month-Long Stay at Charlotte’s Belk Theater

The smash hit Wicked opened its doors at Belk Theater on Sept. 25. This marks the show's longest Charlotte stint yet, running until Oct. 26. The musical's return follows hot on the heels of last year's film adaptation.

Taking center stage, Jessie Davidson brings the misunderstood witch Elphaba to life, while Zoe Jensen shines as Galinda. Blake Hammond commands attention as the Wizard, with Jada Temple and Ethan Kirschbaum rounding out the cast as Nessarose and Prince Flyero.

"When I first saw the stage musical more than 20 years ago, I took in the visual spectacle, the ear-grabbing songs and the message of empowerment," said Lawrence Toppman, according to The Charlotte Ledger.

Set in the magical world of Oz, two students at Shiz University strike up an unexpected bond. Their friendship splits when they clash with the Wizard's dark rule: one becomes the feared Wicked Witch of the West, the other transforms into Glinda the Good.

Critics can't stop talking about Davidson's star turn. "She has a big voice, excellent pitch and enough breath control to sustain big notes, but she's willing to sing softly and turn the electricity down for intimate moments," Toppman said per The Charlotte Ledger.

This run breaks records as the longest in Blumenthal Performing Arts' 33 years, even surpassing Hamilton. The extended schedule meets rising demand sparked by the recent movie version.

Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman adapted Gregory Maguire's book into this spellbinding show. Their vision weaves tales of might, wrongdoing, and standing up to authority through Oz's untold story.

Catch shows Tuesday to Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Want better seats? Try weeknight or matinee shows.

Grab your tickets at the Belk Theater box office: 130 North Tryon St. in uptown Charlotte.