The new Wicked movie has captivated audiences before it even hit the big screen, thanks to its dazzling visual effects and unforgettable soundtrack. It’s a masterclass in the art of storytelling through sound and visuals—something that every event planner can leverage to elevate their live events. Let’s break down how Wicked wows and how you can use the same AV magic to elevate your next event.

The Wicked Formula: Immersive Storytelling Through AV

If Wicked is the yellow brick road leading us to the immersive world of the audio/visual experience, then we can’t underestimate how important implementing these not so simple elements are to storytelling. Take color, for example. The Wicked team didn’t just use it—they weaponized it. Marketing teams spent millions painting audiences into “Team Glinda” (soft pink pastels) or “Team Elphaba” (deep, dramatic greens). Before they even spoke, the colors told us how to feel: pink equals light and whimsical; green equals dark and defiant.

We see the same power of color in live events. For instance, at a gala supporting children’s charities, we used playful greens, purples, and pinks—almost like brushstrokes of wonder—to evoke a sense of childhood magic. For a veteran’s fundraiser, we leaned into patriotic red, white, and blue, creating a deep connection to honor and service. The color story you choose can shape how your attendees feel from the moment they step in. It’s not just lighting; it’s storytelling.

And unless you’re throwing a mid-summer Christmas in July party (hey, no judgment), you wouldn’t fill a room with reds and greens. The right palette sets the right tone—whether it’s cozy and nostalgic or sleek and futuristic.

Audio Magic: Making the Music Resonate

From rich colors to even richer vocals, Wicked didn’t skip a beat. Let’s face it, Wicked is well known for its incredible storytelling through BIG songs and even bigger vocals. The movie’s soaring vocals and powerful songs pull us into the characters’ worlds. Tell me you didn’t feel deeply connected to Elphaba when she pours her heart into Defying Gravity as she flies through the air on a broomstick for the first time. And Glinda’s “Popular”? Instant nostalgia for anyone who’s ever wanted to fit in. There’s a reason why streams of the Wicked Official Playlist on Spotify grew 3,460% globally between November 22 and 24. People left the theater feeling something, and better yet, they didn’t want to stop feeling it.

The same goes for your event. Crisp, balanced audio is essential for keeping your audience captivated. Your keynote speaker is your Glinda or Elphaba, and their words need to land perfectly with the crowd. Whether it’s a heartfelt mission statement or an energizing call-to-action, sound makes the emotional connection. 

Even transitions matter! A great soundtrack can set the mood between speakers. For example, you probably wouldn’t be playing Celine Dion’s “I Will Always Love You” after the introduction to a sales kickoff. You want attendees to feel excited, energized, and focused. Not tearful and sad. It’s all about finding the right vibe to match the moment. And if you’ve got live music? Even better! Our job is to make sure the instruments don’t overpower the vocalist while also making sure you can feel the music from every seat in the house.

Visual Splendor: Creating a World Through Design

Wicked did an A+ job of creating a new “world” in every set they designed. From the little mushroom huts surrounded by whimsical tulip fields in Munchkin Land to the glitzy green and black, marbled Emerald City. Every set creates a mood that pulls you deeper into the story. Taking you from the warm, carefree embrace of a land full of adorable munchkins, to the cold, shiny, sophisticated city of Oz. 

An event space does the same thing for attendees. Lighting, video walls, and stage design at events can create a similarly impactful “wow” factor. One of our favorite projects was a farewell party for an airplane model, held in a hangar. We turned the plane into the centerpiece and projected visuals onto a screen shaped like a tail fin. Attendees felt like they were stepping into a real-life Top Gun scene!

Takeaways for Event Planners

So how can you, as an event planner, bring Wicked-level AV magic to your event? Here’s how:

1. Invest in sound and lighting. Work with an AV partner who knows their stuff and has the tools to bring your vision to life.
2. Make sure your AV partner has trusted technicians. AV techs can save you from mic malfunctions and awkward pauses—things that can derail an otherwise great presentation.
3. Think big. Ask yourself, “How can I turn this event into an immersive world?” Then let us help you build it.

Just as the Wicked movie promises to enchant audiences with its audio-visual brilliance, live events have the power to create lasting impressions when AV is done right. Whether you’re planning a conference, gala, or product launch, let us help you create your own “Emerald City” experience.

Ready to create a show-stopping event? Contact us today to learn how our AV expertise can make your event unforgettable.

To explore our work and the immersive experiences we’ve created, visit our website.

Sources

• Spotify Stats for Wicked: “WICKED Movie Release Sparks Spotify Streaming Surge for Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo,” Broadway World, November 25, 2024.