Wicked Rose Parade Super Float Brings Musical to Life
The magic of Oz is coming to life in Pasadena, California, as the iconic land from the Broadway hit “Wicked” will be featured in the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day. The super float, named “Defying Gravity,” is a spectacular 55-feet-long creation showcasing the enchanting world of Oz, complete with the yellow brick road, the Emerald City, and the beloved characters Elphaba and Glinda.
Bringing Fantasy to Reality
In a collaboration between Universal Entertainment and float builders Phoenix Decorating Company, meticulous attention was given to every detail of the float. Iconic costumes from the witches, including Elphaba’s pinky rings and Glinda’s sparkly crown, were incorporated to truly bring these characters to life. Stephanie Lutjens, from Universal Entertainment, expressed the desire to capture the power, beauty, and scale seen in the film within the float itself.
A Feast for the Senses
To maintain the tradition of the Rose Parade, the float will be adorned with flowers from around the world. 60,000 tulips from Holland, inspired by the film’s nine million tulips, will cover the float, along with carnations draping Glinda’s dress. The addition of 72 LED lights on the Emerald City will provide a shimmering spectacle reminiscent of the movie’s magical setting.
Experience the Magic
Fans of “Wicked” will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the magic beyond the parade. Following the float’s debut, the film will be available for digital rental or purchase on various platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV starting New Year’s Eve. The digital release will include exclusive content like deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes footage, and commentaries with director John M. Chu. For those who prefer physical copies, the movie will be available on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD on February 5, 2025.
As the 136th Rose Parade is broadcast live on NBC on January 1, hosted by Hoda Kotb and Al Roker, audiences worldwide will have the chance to witness the magic of “Wicked” brought to life in the heart of California. So mark your calendars, grab some popcorn, and get ready to be transported to the land of Oz from the comfort of your own home.
