Between the music, the message, and the ambience of Altria Theater, seeing Broadway in Richmond’s Wicked with my child was such a happy memory maker. I just don’t know “witch” was more special when we saw the production: our big night in the city or jammin’ to the Broadway show’s pop-you-lar music on the way back to suburbia.
Eloise (eight), my own little musical munchkin, absolutely lit up during the act one closing number, “Defying Gravity.” I loved seeing my daughter connect with the lyrics about living without limits, and how mesmerized she was by the show’s effects. (“How is she flying?!?”)
The highlight for me was Galinda joining Elphaba on the dance floor. Although Elphaba’s moves were unique, Galinda meets her where she is and the two forge a bond. This display of empathy, inclusivity, and kindness really resonated, as these are the traits we value in our family. I love sharing experiences with my children that we can draw on later, especially during those teachable moments,
PRIOR TO THE SHOW
The show is recommended for ages eight and up and children under two are not permitted. You know your child best, but consider the show’s run-time (about two hours and forty five minutes including intermission) and read reviews, like the one at RFMonline.com and in the newest issue of RFM for background information and to ensure this show is a good fit for your family. As much as I love my own little, wiggly preschooler (he’s five), we decided this show wasn’t suitable for him. (Don’t feel too badly for him. He went out for ice cream with Daddy while Eloise and I were at the show.) Listening to music from Wicked beforehand made our experience even more exciting and meaningful.
I prepped my sensitive girl for the monkeys, dragon, and wizardly special effects ahead of time. According to my little theater-goer, though, the monkeys are just weird and not scary. “You shouldn’t miss the show because of that – you won’t be scared,” she says.
A fun game plan is to dine at a restaurant near Altria Theater, like 821 Cafe or Crazy Thai, and walk from there to the theater.
INFO
The closest parking garage is 801 W. Main St. ($10 cash only). Concesssions are available – card only.
Booster seats are available upon request.
Souvenirs are sold at the far side of the theater.
The show is 2.5 hours with a 15 minute intermission.
The theater is cold even on the hottest days, so bring a light jacket.
Family restroom is on your left as you exit the main doors of the theater.
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Read more about Wicked and whether it’s right for kids here.
Pick up the new RFM at Food Lion, Wegmans, Publix, Whole Foods, Wawa, or hundreds of locations from Ashland to Petersburg and read the feature article, “The Magic of Wicked in Richmond’ by Joan Tupponce.
Wicked runs at Altria Theater through September 11. For showtimes and tickets, go here.
