Key Highlights
- NBC’s “Wicked: One Wonderful Night” concert special taped at L.A.’s Dolby Theatre in September 2025.
- The special featured a crowd of passionate fans and was shot with 21 cameras, including a drone camera.
- Performers included Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, and Cynthia Erivo, who showcased her flying scenes on stage.
- A four-year-old fan named Remington joined Ariana Grande for a performance of “I’m Just a Girl.”
- The broadcast avoided an explicitly political moment by removing references to “power-hungry dictators” from Marissa Bode’s introduction of “Defying Gravity.”
Behind the Scenes: The Taping of NBC’s Wicked Concert Special
The curtain had barely risen on Thursday, September 7, 2025, when NBC transformed L.A.’s Dolby Theatre into a magical realm for their concert special, “Wicked: One Wonderful Night.” As fans filled the seats and dressed in elaborate costumes, it was clear that this was no ordinary event. The cast of the big-screen blockbuster, including Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, and Cynthia Erivo, brought the magic of Oz to life, but not everything made it to air.
The Fan Experience
Passionate “Wicked” fans filled the Dolby Theatre, with a special presence from social media influencers and costumed attendees. Notably, a group of “Wicked”-themed drag queens from Hamburger Mary’s in Long Beach added an extra layer of fantasy to the night. The audience was not just spectators but active participants; during the opening number “No One Mourns the Wicked,” people threw flowers into the air on cue, creating a dazzling spectacle that brought the song to life.
Technical Aspects and Production
The concert special utilized an impressive array of technology. With 21 cameras at work—including a drone camera—the production team ensured every angle was captured. Before each take, choreographer Chris Scott guided the audience on how and when to throw flowers, emphasizing the importance of precision in such live performances.
Star Performances and Audience Interaction
The stars shone brightly, interacting with their adoring fans. Ariana Grande blew kisses after her performance of “No One Mourns the Wicked,” while Jeff Goldblum lingered on stage, soaking up the attention from his devoted audience. Cynthia Erivo’s powerful rendition of “Defying Gravity” was a standout, particularly when she took flight in front of the crowd.
Exclusive Moments and Technical Challenges
Beyond the magic, there were technical challenges that necessitated multiple takes for songs like “The Wizard and I,” “Thank Goodness,” “What Is This Feeling?” and “Defying Gravity.” Despite these hiccups, Erivo’s performance stood out, leaving a lasting impact on those in attendance. The collective gasps of wonder when she soared through the theater were palpable.
The broadcast avoided an explicitly political moment by removing references to “power-hungry dictators” from Marissa Bode’s introduction of “Defying Gravity.” However, this omission was met with a strong ovation from the crowd at the taping. The special also featured advance clips from the upcoming sequel “Wicked: For Good,” but these were not shown during the live event due to being taped separately.
Despite the technical challenges and exclusions, the concert special provided an enchanting experience for those in attendance. NBC’s efforts to transform a night at the Dolby Theatre into a magical evening of entertainment showcased the enduring appeal of “Wicked” and its ability to captivate both fans old and new.
