Wicked and the Big Screen

I went to see the new Wicked movie, Part I, on opening weekend. It does my heart good seeing audiences young and old embracing a true American fairy tale. .The stage musical is still popular today; however, I love the visionaries that have brought it to the big screen. So big, in fact, that there is a part two. The behind-the-scenes story of bringing it all together showed the dedication given by all involved, a labor of love.
Thank you, Ashley, for your thoughts and impressions. Inspired by you while finding mine.

From my friend’s daughter, Ashley Kaye

• Not a spoiler alert
  21 years ago, I had the life-changing privilege of seeing Wicked on Broadway. That experience shifted my perspective in ways I couldn’t fully understand at the time. Seeing it again in its cinematic version was an awe-inspiring reminder of how stories can touch our hearts and ignite a fire within us to challenge the status quo. Wicked isn’t just about magic or catchy songs, it’s about questioning the labels we place on people, uncovering the truth beneath surface appearances, and finding the courage to stand up for what’s right. I personally relate deeply to Elphaba. Like her, I’ve felt a pull to challenge the system, refuse to conform, and speak out—even when it means being misunderstood or labeled as “different.” It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned that embracing who you truly are, even in the face of adversity, is the path to true fulfillment. I can also see some of my earlier self in Glinda, trying to fit in while seeking the approval of others. I thought that if I became “popular” or followed all the rules, everything would feel good and right. But once I got there, I realized it didn’t bring the fulfillment I was seeking. I learned that true happiness and peace come from being authentic to who you are, not from seeking external validation.This story is a powerful reminder that standing up for what’s right, even when others don’t understand, is what truly matters.If you are willing, this story calls us to reflect on:

  How often do we judge others without knowing their story?
  How easily are we swayed by the narratives we’re told, without questioning their truth?
  Are we brave enough to do what’s right, even when it’s not popular?I feel that Elphaba teaches us that being misunderstood is often the price of standing up for something greater than ourselves. Glinda’s evolution shows us that fulfillment doesn’t come from fitting in, it comes from embracing who we truly are

  Based on our more recent historical events, it’s time to question the stories we’ve been told. To stand for what’s right, challenge the systems that hold us back, and embrace our authentic selves, because true power and fulfillment come from living with integrity, courage, and purpose.

  I hope to find more people that break free from conformity, speak truth, and honor the call to something greater than ourselves.

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