The Wickedly Positive Aspects of the Theatre “Who can say if I've been changed for the better? But because I knew you… I have been changed for good” (Schwartz, 2003, track 18). Wicked is a Broadway musical focusing on the lives of characters of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda the Good Witch, and since its debut in 2003, has become the second highest-grossing show of all-time (McPhee, 2017). One specific performance, that took place in July of 2012 at the National Arts Centre, is how I found my chosen sign. As an avid fan of musical theatre, it only made sense to choose a topic that I am passionate about, and wish to learn more on. However, because theatre is as a type of media – something that is often looked down upon – …show more content…
From the famous works of Shakespeare, which continue to be popular centuries later, to newer shows such as Hamilton, which generate audiences of a younger generation, it hardly seems as if this type of media will end any time soon. Not only are plays a source of entertainment for those of all ages, but as mentioned in the Introduction to Sociology textbook by Ron McGivern (2014), they are also a perfect way of bringing people together, and are “unifying for society: As people gathered in theatres to watch, they would laugh, cry, and be scared together” (Chapter 8.2). Whether it be an exchanged look of excitement when actors sing a particular song, admiring the costume and makeup design, or whatever else, theatre allows people to make special memories together that last a lifetime; replicating my chosen sign perfectly. Wicked is a story of friendship, and aims to emphasize just that to those watching. Not only does my chosen sign place emphasis on and promotes this bond by enjoying a moment in present time, but as seen in the eighth chapter of the textbook (2014), McGivern mentions that these showings can also a time capsule, which allows youth and adults alike to enjoy a moment for years to come. For instance, as Wicked is a spin-off of the 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz - hence the sign’s slogan, “The untold story of the Witches of Oz”, parents and grandparents can engage in the magic of