A witchy new season has begun – and we’re not discussing Halloween. In case you’ve missed the press tour, the branded merch, or Ariana Grande’s recent Saturday Night Live hosting gig, Wicked has landed smack in the middle of the zeitgeist. The first chapter of the two-part cinematic event arrives in the theaters of New Haven on November 22, with Grande starring alongside Broadway legend Cynthia Erivo. The premiere day cannot come soon enough, and we’re on the edge of our seats. Call it overenthusiasm or call it a hidden history, but our Elm City is not such a far cry from the Land of Oz. Here’s a lyrical guide on how you can spend a Wicked-themed day in New Haven. Hats, crowns, wands, and bubbles sold separately.
Get Collegiate, ala “Dear Old Shiz”
“O hallowed halls and vine-draped walls, the proudliest sight there is / When grey and sere our hair hath turned, We shall still revere the lessons learned.”
If you’re new to the Wicked universe; first let us say, you’re not. Wicked is, after all, a musical adaptation of the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz. Wicked stands as a prequel of sorts to the famed fable, taking place at Shiz University, the fantastical collegiate alma mater of Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West, Galinda and Elphaba. Our city waves its Oz-ian flag as the hallowed home of Yale University. If you’re looking to soak up the energy and enthusiasm of a college campus (albeit, a human one), enjoy a guided tour of Yale through the university’s visitor center. Led by students, the tours provide a glimpse into the 300-year history and architecture of the university.
Discover the ‘Feeling’ at Pistachio Cafe
“What is this feeling, so sudden and new?”
It’s the caffeine, welcome to your day. Stretched across two locations, Pistachio Cafe feeds the coffee needs and sweet cravings of visitors and locals alike. Pistachio’s first location caters to the brunch crowd, while the second location leans more upscale. Either outpost serves as an ideal landing spot for a kick of caffeine or a first meeting between strangers – one green, one blonde.
‘Defy Gravity’ at the Largest Indoor Ropes Course in the World
“So if you care to find me, look to the western sky heights of It Adventures Ropes Course.”
From its location inside Jordan’s Furniture, It Adventure Ropes Course offers the single largest indoor ropes course in the entire country. Seeing as gravity (and the lack thereof) is so central to the Wicked universe, it seems only right to find yourself 50 feet above the ground.
‘Dance Through Life’ with the New Haven Ballet
“Dancing through life down at the Ozdust New Haven Ballet, If only because dust is what we come to / Nothing matters but knowing nothing matters / It’s just life, So keep dancing through.”
While the Ozdust Ballroom is mere fiction, the New Haven Ballet is pure fact. The Elm City’s community-based ballet school opened in 1985, training hundreds of dancers each year under the direction of professional performers and guest instructors. Dancing through life is no easy feat, so warm up with a drop-in class at the Ballet, which welcomes dancers ages 12-adult on a drop-in basis in their Open Division. Class offerings include Ballet Technique, Introduction to Ballet, Beginning Pointe, and Modern Dance – any of which will have you Broadway ready by lunch, right?
You’re Gonna Be ‘Popular’ at Elm City Social
“They’ll teach you the proper poise, when you talk to boys with the bartender’s toys / Little ways to flirt and flounce shake and stir – ooh!”
You’ve brought Oz to the Elm City and paid tribute to Stephen Schwartz, now it’s time for a drink. End the day with fresh bites and sips from Elm City Social, the ever popular Elm City outpost which slings cocktails inspired by the 1920s and comfort food with a flavorful twist. While you’re there, ask the bartender for something green.
