Wicked Lessons: A Story That Keeps Resonating

Since I first saw it in 2008, Wicked has held a unique space in my heart. On my 40th birthday, I celebrated with a trip to London. For me, London is pure magic—its vibrancy, diversity, and endless opportunities fill me with excitement. And, of course, no visit would be complete without a trip to the West End. Back then, there was only one theatre I wanted to visit: the Apollo Victoria. And only one show I had to see: Wicked.

Now, six years later, I find myself revisiting Elphaba’s story—but this time on the big screen. Watching Wicked as a film has been an emotional experience, bringing back memories and reflections. It’s made me realise just how much this story still resonates with me—and how its message is more relevant than ever.

Understanding Elphaba’s Why

“Are people born wicked, or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?”

This question has stayed with me since the first time I saw Wicked. Elphaba’s journey—from the misunderstood “Wicked Witch of the West” to a deeply complex and vulnerable character—has always felt personal to me.

Elphaba is ridiculed from birth. She loses her mother, struggles to connect with her father, and spends her life longing for acceptance. When she finally finds a glimmer of belonging, she clings to it—even when it leads her down a destructive path. It’s heartbreaking, isn’t it? And yet, it mirrors the experiences of so many children who face trauma or struggle with attachment. These children are often misunderstood, their behaviours judged harshly instead of seen for what they are: cries for help. Knowing Elphaba’s backstory changes everything. Suddenly, the “Wicked Witch” is no longer evil; she’s a person trying her best in a world that’s stacked against her.

What If We Asked, “I Wonder…”?

The film brought back so many emotions for me, and the score hit just as hard as it did when I first saw the show. Perhaps it resonates because, as a young person, I too was often misunderstood. My behaviours were judged when what I really needed was someone to ask, “I wonder what’s going on here?”

Maybe, if someone had been more curious, I would have felt safer. Maybe some of the challenges I faced could have been prevented. And that’s why Elphaba’s story matters. It’s a call to action. A reminder to look beyond behaviour and find the “why” beneath it.

Curiosity is where love and empathy begin. It’s what allows us to give children the connection they need to heal, to feel safe, and to thrive.

Who Will You Be?

Elphaba’s story makes me consider: how many so-called “wicked” children are out there—children labelled as troublemakers or difficult? What would happen if we shifted our perspective? If we chose not to see the behaviour but to seek the “why”? It only takes one good adult to change a child’s life. The question is: which adult will you choose to be?

Leaving Handprints

The thing I love most about Wicked—beyond its incredible music and humour—is its message. It reminds us that we all have a chance to leave a handprint on someone’s heart, how that handprint feels is entirely up to us.

Now, as I wait (impatiently!) for part two of the film, I hope Elphaba’s story touches even more people. I hope it inspires them to be curious, to look beyond behaviour, and to ask, “I wonder…”

“So much of me is made of what I learned from you.

You’ll be with me, Like a handprint on my heart…”

Here’s to more stories that help us understand each other and more opportunities to connect with children's lives—for the better.