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Families Walk Out of 'Wicked Wizard of Oz' Panto in Glasgow, Seek Refunds

The producer argues expectations were unreasonable given prices below Cirque du Soleil.

Overview

  • Attendees at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro on Dec 27 reported walkouts and labeled the show “Willy Wonka Experience 2.0.”
  • A Facebook group created by audience members has surpassed 1,500 members coordinating complaints and refund demands.
  • Parents cited poor sound and crude staging — including a witch on a bike strapped to a golf cart and munchkins on stilts — and said there was no coherent storyline.
  • The tour continued with a second Hydro performance on Dec 28, as some families reported paying high prices such as £297 for five tickets.
  • World’s Biggest Productions defends the show, citing a positive Blackpool opening, saying promo clips reflect real acts, highlighting cast medals, and arguing prices signal different expectations from Cirque du Soleil.