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Universal Pictures UK presents the magical transformation of Greenwich into Greenwich to celebrate the cinematic event, Wicked.

Attention all Ozians! London’s iconic Royal Borough of Greenwich has had a Wicked makeover, temporarily becoming “GreenWitch” to celebrate Universal Pictures’ new spectacular cinematic event, which soars into cinemas on November 22.

The Mayor of Greenwich, Jit Ranabhat, unveiled a plaque on Tuesday 12th November to launch the enchanting new name. The Mayor was accompanied by Professor Jane Harrington, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Greenwich. And Barrie Kelly, Chief Executive, Visit Greenwich.

GREENWITCH

From now until the 24th of November, fans and visitors to the newly named “GreenWitch” can collect a map. (Either from the GreenWitch Tourist Information Centre or by downloading from the visitgreenWitch website). And embark on a spell-binding walking trail, spotting several road signs and directional signs as soon as you come out of Greenwich Station. Up through GreenWitch High Road and past the perfectly named The Green Café and GreenWitch Picturehouse cinema.

Visitors will be enchanted by the captivating roof installation at Greenwich Market, which features a mesmerizing new sign at each entrance. Following this, fans and visitors can proceed to the GreenWitch Tourist Information Centre and the GreenWitch Foot Tunnel to view the newly unveiled plaque. They can then continue past the University of GreenWitch to observe the final Ozian signs at the summit of King William Walk.

Partners involved in “GreenWitch” include VisitGreenwich. Royal Borough of Greenwich. Greenwich Market. University of Greenwich. Greenwich Student’s Union, and Greenwich Picturehouse.

THE FILM

Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony-winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo (Harriet, Broadway’s The Color Purple) as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart.

The two meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz and forge an unlikely but profound friendship. Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda’s unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power, while Elphaba’s determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences on her future. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.

ALSO STARRING

The film also stars Oscar® winner Michelle Yeoh as Shiz University’s regal headmistress Madame Morrible. Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton, Fellow Travelers) as Fiyero, a roguish and carefree prince. Tony nominee Ethan Slater (Broadway’s Spongebob Squarepants, Fosse/Verdon) as Boq, an altruistic Munchkin student. Marissa Bode in her feature-film debut as Nessarose, Elphaba’s favoured sister. And pop culture icon Jeff Goldblum as the legendary Wizard of Oz.

The cast of characters includes Pfannee and ShenShen. Two conniving compatriots of Glinda played by Emmy nominee Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live). And Bronwyn James (Harlots). A new character created for the film, Miss Coddle, is played by Tony nominee Keala Settle (The Greatest Showman).

PRODUCTION CREDITS

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights). Wicked is the first chapter of a two-part immersive, cultural celebration. Wicked Part Two is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on November 28, 2025.

The film is produced by Marc Platt (La La Land, The Little Mermaid). Whose films, television shows and stage productions have earned a combined 46 Oscar® nominations. 58 Emmy nominations and 36 Tony nominations. And by multiple Tony winner David Stone (Kimberly Akimbo, Next to Normal), with whom Platt produced the blockbuster Wicked stage musical. The executive producers are David Nicksay, Stephen Schwartz and Jared LeBoff.

BASED ON

Based on the bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire. Wicked is adapted for the screen by the stage production’s book writer Winnie Holzman. And by legendary Grammy and Oscar® winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. Universal Stage Productions is the producer of the Broadway stage musical. Marc Platt. The Araca Group. Jon B. Platt and David Stone.

WICKED will be released in UK cinemas starting from the 22nd of November.

 

 

 

 

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