Read Idina Menzel and Hugh Jackman’s ‘Wicked’ Opening Night Letters to Kristin Chenoweth 20 Years Later

In honor of the 20th anniversary of Wicked, the show’s original Glinda the Good Witch, Kristin Chenoweth, is sharing never-before-seen letters from her co-star, Idina Menzel, as well as others including Hugh Jackman from the show’s opening night.

In an Instagram post Monday, Chenoweth shared the notes her fellow cast members, creatives and friends sent when the now-iconic musical opened at the Gershwin Theater on Oct. 30, 2003. 

Included in the carousel of photos was a note from Menzel — who originated the role of Elphaba in the hit musical inspired by The Wizard of Oz — and starred alongside Chenoweth in the show. 

“To my new beautiful friend — co-ambassador thru life and sister of sorcery and all forms of magic — glitter and stardust,” Menzel wrote. 

“I will never forget this experience as long as I live. I consider myself so lucky to be sharing it with you. You have made me a better person – taught me so much about life and most of all friendship,” Chenoweth’s co-star continued. 

“I am honored to be on a stage with you feeling just an ounce of that joy and laughter that constantly surrounds you. You are intoxicatingly precious and beautiful to me. Thank you for being my friend. I love you,” the Frozen star penned at the time, signing off with “Idina.” 

Fellow Broadway alum Hugh Jackman — who had just opened The Boy From Oz at the time — also shared a special message with Chenoweth. 

“Have a most amazing opening night! Merde — I have heard only amazing things about you and the show — Enjoy it!! All my very best wishes and good thoughts from one land of Oz to another,” Jackman wrote. 

Two other notable names to send the leading lady opening night notes were Wicked‘s composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz and co-writer Winnie Holzman. 

In their combined card, the musical writers called it an honor to work with Chenoweth and shared their thanks for bringing the character to life. 

“What an honor it has been to write this role especially for you,” Schwartz wrote. “You are one of the greatest talents I have ever worked with in my life. With love, gratitution, and deep respect — Stephen.” 

 

“Thank you — for making my dream come true; by being the actress I’ve always dreamed of working with… (and a wonderful, new, and precious friend, besides). So let your light shine — tonight and always, because you are truly Glinda The Good,” Holzman wrote. 

Chenoweth’s caption summed up her gratitude to the fans and those who supported her during the musical’s opening, as well as in the 20 years since.

“Truly was changed For. Good,” she wrote, referencing one of the show’s signature songs.

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