First published as a novel back in 1900, the classic tale of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz was part of an original print run of 10,000 which quickly sold out. Within a few years it had been adapted to become a highly successful Broadway show, while the original book went on to sell over one million copies by the time the most famous iteration of the story, The Wizard of Oz, came to screens in 1939.
Fast forward to 2025 and Wicked, the much-anticipated prequel to the story, has brought the tale back to the consciousness of many, becoming the highest-grossing film adaptation of a Broadway musical ever. This March, a UK-tour of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz The Drone Light Show is set to provide yet another whole new reimagining of this timeless tale. As the country prepares for this unique theatrical masterpiece to hit the skies from the North East to Cardiff, we take a look back at the many Oz recreations that have been enjoyed over the years. Clearly, the much-loved themes of courage, connection and kindness resonate as much today as they did 125 years ago.
A literary masterpiece
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz was written by L Frank Baum and formed the first of a series of 14 Oz books. The original print run sold ahead of the publication date, with the second proving equally popular and quickly becoming depleted. Baum originally predicted the sale of 250,000 books. In fact, three million copies had sold by 1956 when the story entered the global public domain. Today, it is widely acclaimed as “America’s greatest and best-loved homegrown fairytale”.
From the page to the stage
The story was transformed into a musical production in 1902, premiering in Chicago before moving to Broadway in 1903. Baum worked on this alongside composer Paul Tietjens and illustrator W. W. Denslow, with the show being significantly adapted to add to its theatrical appeal. This musical adaptation played a pivotal role in popularising Baum’s creation, setting the stage for its enduring legacy in American culture.
Oz has continued to be reincarnated numerous times during its rich history. In 1975, a ground breaking musical, The Wiz, shared the Oz narrative through the lens of African-American culture, featuring an all-Black cast. Also appearing on Broadway, it went on to win seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
In 1987, The Royal Shakespeare Company recreated the 1939 film for the stage, incorporating much of the film’s music. And in 2011, an Andrew Lloyd Webber adaptation premiered at the London Palladium, combining original songs from the film with contemporary adaptations, bringing yet another fresh perspective to the beloved tale.
In the meantime, the prequel Wicked, which focuses on the untold story of the witches, particularly Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda the Good, premiered on Broadway in 2003 after a short try-out at San Francisco’s Curran Theatre. The original show went on to win three Tonys and seven Drama Desk Awards, with the original cast also receiving a Grammy Award. Since then, the musical production has been performed worldwide, including a long-run West End production, becoming a global cultural phenomenon with a devoted fan base.
Its global success, across multiple languages and cultures, demonstrates how the values that hold the story together – connection, courage and kindness – are not only timeless but also globally understood and welcomed.
From the stage to the screen
It’s easy to forget the fundamental role cinema has played in the continued success and extended reach of the story of Oz. Back as early as 1910, a silent film of The Wizard of Oz took inspiration from the early Broadway show, and another silent movie appeared in 1925 incorporating slapstick comedy and new characters.
But it was the iconic 1939 film The Wizard of Oz, starring Judy Garland, which won worldwide acclaim as an iconic masterpiece in cinematic history, not least for bringing technicolour application to cinema. This, along with the hugely successful film musical score, including ‘Over the Rainbow’ performed by Judy Garland, has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The song not only became Garland’s signature piece but also won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, contributing to the film’s enduring legacy.
Few stories have provided more inspiration for numerous spin-off adventures. In 1972, Journey Back to Oz, an animated sequel, featured the voice of Liza Minnelli, Judy Garland’s daughter, as Dorothy came to screens. The Wiz followed in 1978, following its success on stage, starring both Michael Jackson and Diana Ross. Return to Oz offered a darker take on Baum’s universe in a 1985 as a live-action film produced by Walt Disney Pictures, taking inspiration from the subsequent Oz books. More recently, Oz the Great and Powerful hit the screens in 2013, exploring the origins of the wizard himself.
Of course the success and acclaim of the first part of Wicked (a two-part prequel adaptation which tells the story behind the witches of the story) feels poignant today. Released in the UK earlier this year and starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the film delves into the themes of friendship, identity, and societal expectations, taking the traditional values so central to the story and adding a modern twist.
A whole new reimagining hits the skies of UK
Now, in March 2025, Oz fans across the country will have the opportunity to experience the timeless classic come to life on a whole new epic scale, performed by hundreds of illuminated drones. The beloved characters – Dorothy, Toto, The Tin Woodman, The Scarecrow and The Lion – will be just as one might remember, but this time, the story unfolds in the sky above the heads of the audience. Set to a breathtaking original musical score and staged in stunning outdoor stadiums, this new and unique production will deliver a spectacular, unforgettable experience for all generations. This is Oz as you’ve never seen it before, touring across the UK with visits to Birmingham, Durham, Cardiff, Southampton, and Nottingham throughout March.
Drone light shows have become an alternative way to experience traditional stories and theatre productions, redefining creative entertainment by fusing cutting-edge technology with artistic brilliance. In this retelling of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, audiences will watch the playful Munchkins to the fearless lion, come to life above them through a dazzling display of light and sound.
Much-loved themes that transcend time and culture
The enduring global appeal of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a testament to the human need for friendship, courage and kindness, regardless of culture or era. These themes have resonated deeply with the values of millions of readers and audiences over the past 125 years, associated with personal growth and coming of age. Today, faced with a multitude of societal challenges, from global unrest to political polarisation to a cost-of-living crisis, these values feel more prominent and important than ever.
Whether audiences are watching The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, The Drone Light Show, or curling up with a favourite book at home, the story of Dorothy and her friends bravely confronting the Wicked Witch and other life challenges reminds us all of the strength found in connection, courage, and the power of self-belief.
Written by Dominic Mills, Founder and CEO of Yuup.
Ticket information
For those keen to secure a ticket to this spellbinding show, general release tickets are now on sale at www.yuup.co/wizard-of-oz from £14 for children and concessions and £18 for adults.
Upcoming venues:
