Elphaba, born with green skin, is treated as an outcast and longs to be accepted. Galinda, on the other hand, is beautiful, popular, and seems to have everything going for her. Despite their differences, the two become close friends, supporting each other through their adventures and challenges.
As they pursue their education at Shiz, they encounter a corrupt political system, animal cruelty, and injustice. Elphaba becomes increasingly disillusioned with the world around her, while Galinda remains hopeful and believes in the power of goodness and kindness.
Along the way, they fall in love with the same man, Fiyero, a handsome flying monkey. Elphaba's green skin, outspoken nature, and desire for justice clash with Fiyero's charm and adventurous spirit, leading to friction between them. Eventually, Elphaba's longing for acceptance and her fierce defiance against authority set her on a path that transforms her into the Wicked Witch of the West.
Throughout the musical, Elphaba's complexities are explored, as the audience learns about the circumstances and factors that shape her decisions and actions. Her friendship with Galinda also undergoes trials, as they find themselves on opposing sides of a brewing conflict between the Wizard of Oz and the people of Oz.
In a climactic twist, Elphaba sacrifices herself to save Galinda and others, solidifying her role as the misunderstood and tragic anti-hero of the story. Despite the difficulties and challenges they faced, Elphaba and Galinda's friendship endures, highlighting the power of compassion and understanding even in dark times.
Wicked is known for its beautiful music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, as well as for critically acclaimed performances by its cast members, most notably Idina Menzel (Elphaba) and Kristin Chenoweth (Galinda). The musical has won numerous awards, including three Tony Awards, five Drama Desk Awards, and a Grammy Award. Today, it remains one of the most beloved and long-running musicals in Broadway history.