The Des Moines Civic Center welcomed the beloved Broadway production Wicked on Sept. 2, bringing the magic of Oz to downtown Iowa for a limited run that ends on Sept. 20. Residents have a chance to see the iconic rivalry between Elphaba and Glinda performed by two talented local actresses.
Local talent shines in lead roles
Aline Mayagoitia, portraying the green‑skinned Elphaba, said the opportunity to bring a major musical to Iowa means a great deal to her. Mayagoitia, who grew up in Texas, recalled first falling in love with theater when touring shows visited her hometown. “I actually came here in 2023 with a different show, and a lot of people have been telling me, ‘Oh, I saw you in that one too,’” she told KCCI. “Having people who have followed my growth and seeing me back here as a whole new person three years later is just so special.”
Mayagoitia added that the role felt unexpected, yet she realized she had the talent within her all along. She also highlighted the camaraderie among the 89‑person traveling company, describing the troupe as “family, like family.”
Dream role fulfilled for Glinda
Claudia Bennett steps onto the stage as Glinda, a part she has dreamed of since childhood. “I fell in love with the show when I was seven years old,” Bennett said. “I went in costume with my twin sister and haven’t stopped thinking about it ever since. It’s surreal to be here.”
Bennett emphasized the heartfelt connection between Glinda and Elphaba, noting that she relates to the friendship because she grew up with sisters. “It’s a beautiful story of celebrating our differences and friendship and connecting to one another,” she said.
Why the story resonates
Both actresses pointed to the central friendship between the two women as the heart of the production. Mayagoitia explained, “My favorite part about the ‘Wicked’ story is that it centers on the friendship of two women. The most important relationships in my life are the friends I’ve had since high school or college, and the emotional arc between Elphaba and Glinda is really special.”
The production offers Des Moines families a chance to experience a high‑quality musical without traveling to a larger market. Tickets remain available through the Civic Center box office and online portal, giving local theatergoers ample opportunity to enjoy the show before it closes on Sept. 20.
Community impact
Local businesses anticipate a boost in foot traffic as theater‑goers dine and shop in the downtown area before and after performances. The Civic Center’s partnership with nearby restaurants and hotels underscores the economic ripple effect of cultural events like Wicked. Organizers hope the run will inspire more touring productions to consider Iowa’s vibrant arts scene.
For families seeking a night out, the show provides a wholesome, family‑friendly experience that aligns with community values of faith, family, and personal liberty. As the cast continues to enchant audiences, the Civic Center invites all Des Moines residents to join in celebrating the power of friendship and the arts.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
