Wicked Movie Popularity Could Lead to Universal Theme Park

Summary

• Universal my add a Wicked-themed experience to its parks, capitalizing on the success of the movie.
• Epic Universe in Orlando will feature immersive lands based on popular franchises like How to Train Your Dragon and Super Nintendo World.
• Speculation suggests Universal may create a Wicked-themed expansion or even a standalone park, enhancing competition with Disney.

With the success of the Wicked movie, Universal could be looking to bring a permanent Wicked-themed experience to its parks. Universal has major plans for its theme parks, with the highly anticipated opening of Epic Universe in Orlando and the introduction of Universal Kids Resort in Texas. Additionally, the company is expanding its horror offerings with a new Las Vegas attraction with tickets currently on sale.

Epic Universe is set to become Universal Orlando’s third major theme park, joining Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. The highly anticipated park will feature five immersive lands, including attractions based on How to Train Your Dragon, Super Nintendo World, and the Universal Classic Monsters. In addition to the immersive lands, From full-service restaurants to quick-service favorites, Epic Universe will also feature 30 diverse dining locations, each designed to transport guests to different culinary worlds. Guests can look forward to trying the Butterbeer Crêpe in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic or the Mario Burger in Super Nintendo World. This marks the first time in over a decade that a brand-new park will debut in Orlando, making it a thrilling addition for Universal fans.

Related

Wicked Finally Gets a Streaming Release Date

The Wicked streaming peacock release date has been announced, but it won’t be available before this year’s Academy Awards ceremony.

Universal recently tested the waters by introducing a limited-time Wicked experience at Universal Orlando. The temporary offering included a meet-and-greet with Glinda and Elphaba, themed treats, exclusive merchandise, and displays featuring costumes from the film. The pop-up event seemed to gauge interest in Wicked as a long-term addition to the parks, and with the franchise’s enduring popularity, it wouldn’t be surprising if Universal decided to expand on it. In fact, Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, hinted at the possibility in a recent interview with The New York Times, saying, “When I saw it, my first reaction was, ‘This is a theme park waiting to happen.’” Notably, he used the term “theme park” rather than “land,” sparking speculation about the scale of Universal’s plans.

Could Wicked Have A Home In Universal Studios?

One of the most intriguing possibilities is that Universal could use its undeveloped land in Epic Universe for a Wicked-themed expansion. With extra space available for future additions, a new portal leading guests into the world of Oz could be a natural fit. The Wicked universe, with its rich storytelling, iconic characters, and stunning visuals, is tailor-made for an immersive theme park experience. A Wicked land or even an entire park could also position Universal as an even stronger competitor to Disney. The Wizard of Oz has been a beloved story for generations, and the Wicked musical-turned-movie franchise has only added to its cultural significance. Bringing the world of Oz to life in a permanent theme park setting could be a major draw for fans and a game-changer for Universal’s expansion strategy.

While no official announcements have been made, the possibility of a Wicked theme park experience remains an exciting prospect. Until then, fans can only dream, and speculate, about what Universal might have in store, especially with Epic Universe officially opening on May 22, 2025, along with three brand-new resort hotels.

Wicked

Release Date

November 22, 2024

Runtime

160 Minutes

Director

Jon M. Chu

Writers

Gregory Maguire, Winnie Holzman, Dana Fox, L. Frank Baum

• Cynthia Erivo

  Elphaba Thropp

• Ariana Grande

  Glinda Upland

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