After Wicked 2: New projects from the Wizard of Oz universe

More for all "Wicked" fans: After "Wicked: For Good" has been quite successful at the box office, the makers are now planning a series of further projects from the "Wizard of Oz" universe.

In an interview with The Ankler,"Wicked" composer Stephen Schwartz expressed interest in new ways to further expand the world of Oz. Quote:

"What I will tell you without giving away too much is that Winnie Holzman and I are doing some work right now on ideas that aren't a sequel to "Wicked", because I think the Glinda and Elphaba story feels complete – but there are other aspects that could be explored. Gregory Maguire, the original "Wicked" novelist, has several books, for example. But there's another idea that Winnie and I are discussing: not a sequel, but an adjunct. Let me put it that way."

Even "Wicked: For Good" was often perceived by the public as a second part. However, the creative team emphasized several times that the film was not a sequel, but rather a second half of the already known story.

Speaking of "The Wizard of Oz": it was announced a few months ago that a series entitled "Dorothy" is in the works. This is to be a contemporary and musically influenced retelling of the classic "The Wizard of Oz", aimed primarily at a younger audience.

Musical tips for everyone who loved Wicked: Magic, power and big emotions on stage

Anyone who liked "Wicked" – whether as a musical on Broadway, in the West End, in Hamburg or in the current film adaptation – was probably enchanted for the same reasons: strong characters, magical worlds, emotional power ballads, overwhelming stage sets and stories about friendship, being an outsider and self-determination. What makes "Wicked" so special is its mixture of fantasy, political undertones and a deeply human core. However, for musical fans looking for similar emotions, there are numerous other productions that also masterfully combine pathos, spectacle and heart.

Here are the best musical tips for anyone who loved "Wicked" – from epic, magical stories to modern classics with strong female characters and anthemic songs.

Frozen: magic, sisterly love and great ballads

"Frozen" shares many strands of DNA with "Wicked": two women at the center whose relationship is more complex than it initially seems; stunning music; magic that can be both a gift and a burden. The fact that "Let It Go" and "Defying Gravity" feel musically related is no coincidence: both shows thrive on emotional flights of fancy and musical explosions.

So if what you liked most about "Wicked" was the portrayal of strong but vulnerable women, you will feel right at home with "Frozen" The stage show goes even deeper than the movie and features additional songs, spectacular effects and a touching tale of freedom, identity and sisterhood.

Les Misérables: epic, emotion and rebellious outsiders

Admittedly, "Les Misérables" has no witches, no green skin and no floating finale – but it has a very similar power to overwhelm audiences emotionally. The musical is an operatic spectacle with a revolutionary spirit, moral gray areas and characters who struggle with their role as social outsiders.

Those who liked the political and philosophical undertones in "Wicked" – such as how power is manipulated, history is rewritten and propaganda is used – will find an equally powerful, albeit more realistic, examination in "Les Misérables". Songs such as "I Dreamed a Dream" or "One Day More" offer the larger-than-life pathos that musical fans love.

Anastasia: fairy tale, search for identity and musical brilliance

"Anastasia" is perfect for "Wicked" fans who appreciate romantic, nostalgic and fairytale stage worlds. Loosely based on historical events and the popular 1997 animated film, the show centers on the search for identity: a young woman doesn't know who she is – and her path to the truth is fraught with danger, intrigue and hope.

The musical combines a lush orchestral score, a dreamlike set design and an atmosphere full of longing and new beginnings. Anyone who found Elphaba's journey of self-discovery in "Wicked" particularly touching will discover a related story in "Anastasia".

The Phantom of the Opera: passion, secrets and great drama

If the magic of "Wicked" for you lies in the epic, melodramatic musical experience, then Andrew Lloyd Webber's classic is a must-see. Phantom offers a mystical atmosphere, spectacular stage sets, a passionate love triangle and overwhelming music. Like "Wicked", Phantom also shows how complex "monsters" can be – and how perspective determines who is the hero and who is the villain.

Conclusion: The magic doesn't end with Wicked

"Wicked" is unique – but the musical world is full of magical, emotional and powerfully told shows that can work the same magic. Whether you prefer spectacular fantasy worlds, deep drama, mythical tales or timeless classics, there are plenty of musicals that offer the same blend of heart, music and magic. If you were enchanted by "Wicked", chances are good that at least one of these musicals will be your next big stage adventure.