‘Wicked: One Wonderful Night’: 9 Things You Didn’t See on TV, Including Multiple Takes of ‘Defying Gravity’

‘Wicked: One Wonderful Night’: Behind the Scenes Highlights

The taping of Wicked: One Wonderful Night at the Dolby Theatre on September 24 offered fans a unique look behind the curtain. While many memorable moments were broadcast, several charming details happened off-camera.

Audience Participation Before the Show

Before filming began, audience members learned choreography for the opening number, No One Mourns the Wicked. Those in the orchestra section received faux tulips and practiced flower movements from the show, tossing them in the air just as Ariana Grande made her entrance as Glinda the Good.

Multiple Takes of Iconic Scenes

The production filmed sequences out of order, capturing full musical numbers as well as the scene-to-scene transitions, including several takes of the signature song, Defying Gravity.

Standout Performances

The televised event featured highlights like a duet of the Judy Garland-Barbra Streisand classic “Happy Days Are Here Again / Get Happy,” delivered by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. However, many delightful moments from the evening were left out of the final broadcast.

"Oz may have told us to pay no attention to the man behind the curtain, but at the Dolby Theatre taping, audiences were treated to a rare peek at the magic behind the scenes."

Fans dressed for the occasion, filling the theater with energy and enthusiasm, adding to the atmosphere of this unique event.

Summary

The taping of Wicked: One Wonderful Night revealed fascinating behind-the-scenes moments, including audience choreography, multiple song takes, and exclusive performances that shaped a truly magical evening.

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Variety Variety — 2025-11-07