If you’ve ever wondered what happened before Dorothy landed in Oz, you’re about to find out. Wicked, the musical that’s been packing theatres around the world for over two decades, is making its Middle East debut right here in Bahrain this January.
Running from 13 to 17 January at Bahrain National Theatre, this is the show’s first time in the region. It’s a pretty big deal when you consider that Wicked has been seen by more than 65 million people across 130 cities in 25 countries. Now it’s one of the starter events on Bahrain’s entertainment calendar for 2026!
The story flips The Wizard of Oz on its head, focusing on the friendship between two young women at Shiz University. There’s Glinda, who’s beautiful, popular and has her sights set on greatness. Then there’s Elphaba, the green-skinned student who’s brilliant but constantly misunderstood. Their unlikely friendship eventually unravels into the rivalry that shapes them into Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.
It’s essentially the origin story you never knew you needed, exploring how things aren’t always as black and white as we think. Or in this case, as good and wicked.
Since opening on Broadway in 2003, Wicked has become one of those shows that people see multiple times. The music by Stephen Schwartz is a big part of that. Songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular” have become theatre standards, and “For Good” is the kind of number that tends to leave audiences quietly wiping their eyes.
The production itself is known for being visually stunning. We’re talking massive sets, over 350 costumes, and stage effects that genuinely surprise. When Elphaba takes flight during “Defying Gravity”, it’s one of those theatrical moments that sticks with you.
This isn’t a scaled-down touring version. The production is bringing over 100 performers, crew and orchestra members to the Bahrain National Theatre. Everything from the sets to the costumes will be the full experience that’s been wowing audiences from London’s West End to Broadway.
The show is being co-presented by Tarteeb, Cineco, Broadway Entertainment Group and BACA, which tells you this is being treated as a major cultural event for the kingdom.
Performances run across five days in mid-January, giving you several chances to catch it. Given that this is Wicked’s first time in the Middle East and the limited run, booking sooner rather than later makes sense. Check Tarteeb or Cineco’s platforms for ticket availability and showtimes.
Whether you’re a musical theatre regular or someone who just enjoys a good story with memorable songs, Wicked delivers. It’s the kind of show that works on multiple levels, entertaining while also making you think about prejudice, power and the stories we tell about heroes and villains.
It’s not often a production of this scale comes to Bahrain, so this January might be worth clearing your calendar.
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