Wicked Theater Kids
As a parent who absolutely adores live theater, one question I get asked a lot is, “Is the Wicked musical good for kids?” It’s a valid concern, especially with such a hugely popular show that delves into some deeper themes. I recently took my own family, including my theater-loving little ones, to see Wicked, and I wanted to share our experience to help other parents decide if it’s the right fit for their budding Broadway fans. First off, let’s talk about age appropriateness. Wicked is generally recommended for ages 8 and up. While there aren't any overtly inappropriate scenes, some parts can be a little intense or complex for very young children. There are moments with the flying monkeys that might be a bit scary, and the themes of political intrigue, prejudice, and betrayal are quite sophisticated. However, my kids, who are just starting to get into more complex stories, were utterly captivated. We talked about Elphaba's journey and why she was misunderstood beforehand, which I think really helped them grasp the nuances. It truly sparked some great conversations about acceptance and looking beyond initial impressions. To make the experience even better for my kids, I made sure to prepare them. We listened to the soundtrack on repeat for weeks, so they knew many of the songs by heart. This made them feel more connected to the story as it unfolded on stage. I also gave them a brief rundown of the plot, focusing on the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda, and how everyone has a different side to their story. This pre-show prep turned out to be invaluable, preventing any confusion and building excitement. What did my kids love most about Wicked? Without a doubt, the music and the spectacle! "Defying Gravity" was a show-stopper that left them speechless, and they were humming "Popular" for days afterward. The costumes are absolutely stunning, especially Glinda's sparkly gowns and Elphaba's iconic green skin. The set designs are magical, transporting you straight to Oz. They also really connected with the characters—Elphaba’s struggle to fit in resonated with them, and Glinda’s transformation from a self-absorbed popular girl to a true friend was a great lesson in character development. Attending a long musical with kids requires a little planning. We made sure to go to an afternoon matinee, so we weren't out too late. I packed a small snack for the intermission, and we made a quick bathroom stop. Choosing seats that weren't too far from an aisle was also a good idea, just in case a quick break was needed. After the show, we talked about our favorite parts, the songs, and even what we thought might happen next. It was a wonderful way to extend the magic of the performance. Overall, our family’s experience with Wicked was nothing short of magical. It's more than just a show; it's an opportunity to introduce children to complex storytelling, incredible music, and the power of live theater. If your child is around 8 or older, has an interest in stories with depth, and you're willing to do a little pre-show preparation, I wholeheartedly recommend Wicked. It might just ignite a lifelong love for the theater in them, just as it did for my little ones!
