In the captivating world of theater, the magic often lies in the unseen details that bring stories to life. The production designer of “Wicked For Good,” Nathan Crowley, has created an extraordinary sanctuary for Elphaba using natural materials, making it not just a set, but an art installation. This unique design sets the stage for Elphaba’s journey, capturing the essence of her character in a fresh and impactful way.
The story of Elphaba (played by Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (portrayed by Ariana Grande) evolves in “Wicked: For Good,” exploring the choices and consequences the witches face. Declared the “Wicked Witch,” Elphaba’s fate takes her to new places, including a hidden refuge in the forest.
Crowley explains, “In the stage show, that’s written as a grotto. It’s a hiding place.” In his vision, the forests feature circular, rotating trees that create fluid, dynamic shapes. Although the script didn’t specify it, Crowley imagined a canopy, envisioning Oz’s forest as home to a mother tree where Elphaba would nest.
Image: Universal Pictures
Crafting the Forest Retreat
As Elphaba embarks on a western journey to become the Wicked Witch of the West, the choice of forest location was critical. Crowley collaborated with the greens department to utilize local woods for the nest, weaving it meticulously into the forest setting. “We gave them a big stack of wood from greens, and then we had a platform at the right height,” he shares, noting the collaboration with scaffolding and steel departments. After six weeks of intricate work, the set emerged as an organic masterpiece with windows seamlessly woven into its structure.
Artistry in Lighting and Details
Lighting played a crucial role in realizing the nest’s ethereal quality. Working with cinematographer Alice Brooks, Crowley describes using silicone molds of giant leaves with hand-painted veins. These translucent leaves were strategically placed on the roof to allow light to filter through, capturing the forest’s mystique.
Additionally, Crowley designed a bed within the nest from intertwined branches. “It is branches weaving up, creating the bed. I can’t say that we knew what it was when we were making it,” Crowley remarks, smiling. The result was a sculptural piece that stood as a testament to storytelling through design.
The transformation of the set into an art installation not only enhanced the narrative but also added a layer of depth to Elphaba’s character, embodying her connection to nature and the world of Oz in “Wicked For Good.”
