‘Wicked’ to Defy Gravity At Rose Parade

Millions are preparing to line Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena for the 136th Rose Parade, where Universal Pictures Home Entertainment will unveil a towering “Wicked” float celebrating the film’s digital release.

The spectacular 55-foot-long display, built by Phoenix Decorating Company to tell the untold story of the witches of Oz, features a motion-activated Elphaba amid shimmering spires.

Nearly 77,000 flowers adorn the massive structure, which incorporates unique decorative elements including black seaweed, onion powder, and fine-cut everlasting materials throughout its intricate design.

The float’s musical accompaniment showcases the film’s signature song, “Defying Gravity,” performed by Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda in their starring roles.

Universal’s parade entry arrives as the film, which set records for the biggest opening for a Broadway show adaptation, debuts its home entertainment version with over three hours of bonus content.

The elaborate display, measuring 24 feet high and 18 feet wide, combines Glinda’s signature sparkling bubbles with special effects in a dynamic presentation of the magical world of Oz.

The float’s appearance coincides with the film’s four Golden Globe nominations, including a nod for Best Motion Picture in the Musical or Comedy category.

Phoenix Decorating Company’s design emphasizes the story’s central themes of friendship and self-discovery, aligning with the parade’s declared theme “Best Day Ever” for this year.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment designed the float to serve dual purposes: as a parade spectacle celebrating the fantastical world of Oz and as promotion for at-home viewing.