Wicked, the hit Broadway musical, has been delighting audiences across the country since it first premiered in 2003. The show, which tells the untold story of the Witches of Oz, has become one of the most successful musicals of all time. For fans in California, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the magic of Wicked live on stage.
Wicked in Los Angeles
The Pantages Theatre in Hollywood has been home to the Los Angeles production of Wicked since 2007. The elegant Art Deco theater first opened in 1930 and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. It has a long history of hosting Broadway musicals and other live entertainment. The 2,703 seat theater provides an intimate setting to see Wicked, even though it’s one of the largest venues on Broadway in LA.
Wicked typically has a long run at the Pantages, often lasting for several months at a time. The standard performance schedule is Tuesday through Sunday evenings at 8pm, with weekend matinees on Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 2pm. There are also 1pm matinees on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Check the Pantages website for the exact dates of the current and upcoming productions.
Tickets for Wicked at the Pantages Theatre generally range from $50 – $200 depending on seat location and performance date. They can be purchased through the theater box office or online through ticket seller websites. It’s recommended to purchase tickets well in advance, as the popular musical often sells out, especially for weekend shows.
Getting to the Pantages Theatre
The Pantages Theatre is located right in the heart of Hollywood at 6233 Hollywood Boulevard. There are several parking options nearby including street parking, lots, and garages. Public transportation is also a convenient option with the Metro Red Line subway stopping at the Hollywood/Vine station just 2 blocks away.
Wicked in San Francisco
San Francisco is another great place to see Wicked in California. The musical has had several long engagements at the Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco since 2009. This beautiful 1926 theater with French baroque architecture hosts both touring Broadway shows and local performing arts.
When Wicked is at the Orpheum Theatre, it typically runs for 1-2 months at a time. There are evening performances Tuesday through Saturday at 8pm, with weekend matinees on Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 2pm. Like in LA, there is also a 1pm matinee on Saturdays. Upcoming performance dates are listed on the Orpheum Theatre website.
Ticket prices vary from around $50 – $210 each depending on date and seat location. They can be purchased online, by phone, or in person at the Orpheum Theatre box office. It’s highly recommended to buy tickets in advance due to the popularity of the show.
Getting to the Orpheum Theatre
The Orpheum Theatre is located right on Market Street in downtown San Francisco. Nearby public parking garages provide easy access by car. It is also very convenient to take public transportation – BART stops at both Civic Center and Powell Street stations just a block away. Additionally, the theater is directly accessible through the Civic Center Muni and BART stations.
Wicked in San Diego
San Diego is a great warm weather destination to see Wicked in California. The show has had several engagements at the San Diego Civic Theatre over the years. This historic 2,967 seat performing arts venue in downtown San Diego also hosts Broadway tours, concerts, and local arts performances.
When Wicked comes to the Civic Theatre, it usually runs for 1-2 months at a time. Typical showtimes are Tuesday through Sunday evenings at 7:30pm, with weekend matinees on Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 2pm. There are also Saturday matinees at 2pm. Check the theater website for upcoming Wicked performance dates and times.
Ticket prices for Wicked in San Diego range from around $50 – $210 depending on the seat location and showtime. Tickets can be purchased online through the theater website or box office. They are known to sell out fast, so get your tickets early!
Getting to the San Diego Civic Theatre
The Civic Theatre is centrally located in downtown San Diego at 1100 3rd Avenue. There are several parking garages and lots within walking distance. The San Diego Trolley has a stop right outside the theater, making public transit a convenient option. The Blue and Orange lines provide easy access from many parts of San Diego.
Wicked in Costa Mesa
The Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa also frequently hosts productions of the Wicked musical. The impressive 3,000 seat Segerstrom Hall specifically hosts Broadway show tours like Wicked. The Center opened in 1986 and provides a modern theater-going experience.
When Wicked comes to the Segerstrom Center, it usually runs for around 2-3 weeks at a time. Typical showtimes are Tuesday through Friday evenings at 7:30pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 7:30pm, and Sundays at 1pm and 6:30pm. Some weeks have additional showtimes. Check the Segerstrom Center website for details on upcoming Wicked performances.
Ticket prices for Wicked in Costa Mesa vary depending on performance and seat location, ranging from around $45 to $210 each. Discounts are sometimes available for weeknight shows. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the box office.
Getting to Segerstrom Center
The Segerstrom Center is located at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa. Parking is available in the center parking garages and lots for a fee. The venue is also accessible from nearby freeways, just off the 405 and 55. As well, the Orange County Transportation Authority provides bus routes to Segerstrom Hall.
Wicked in Sacramento
Fans in Northern California can see Wicked at the Sacramento Community Center Theater. This 2,452 seat proscenium theater hosts touring Broadway musicals and other performances. Wicked has made several multi-week appearances here since 2007.
When the show is in town, typical showtimes are Tuesdays through Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 1pm and 6:30pm. Schedules vary, so check the Community Center Theater website for upcoming Wicked dates.
Ticket prices for Wicked in Sacramento vary by date and seat location, ranging from around $50 to $130 each. They can be purchased through the theater box office online or by phone. These shows often sell out in advance.
Getting to the Sacramento Community Center Theater
The Sacramento Community Center Theater is located downtown at 1301 L Street. There are several parking garages and lots within a few blocks walking distance. Light rail and bus stops are also located right by the theater, making public transit very convenient.
Other California Cities
In addition to extended runs in the major cities, the touring production of Wicked will sometimes make shorter 1-2 week appearances in other California cities. For example, recent stops have included Bakersfield, Riverside, San Jose, and Santa Barbara. Check the official Wicked website for details on whether the show will be coming to a city near you sometime soon.
Booking Wicked Tickets in California
Here are some tips for booking Wicked tickets when the show is in California:
- Buy early – Wicked consistently sells out in California, especially weekend shows. Purchase your tickets as soon as sales open.
- Join fan clubs and email lists – Sign up through the Wicked website and theater email lists to get access to presales.
- Shop around – Compare prices between the official theater box offices, Ticketmaster, and reseller sites.
- Check for deals – Look for coupon codes and discounts for weekday or single tickets.
- Avoid scalpers – Use only reputable ticket sources so you don’t get scammed.
Seeing Wicked live on stage is an unforgettable experience for fans of musical theater. With its engaging story, memorable music, impressive sets and costumes, and touches of magic, this award-winning show creates pure enjoyment. Take advantage of the many opportunities to catch Wicked throughout California and emerse yourself in the spectacular world of Oz!