5. Wicked: $16.9 Million
Who doesn’t know the story of the young girl named Dorothy Gale? The adaptation of a children’s novel written by L. Frank Baum and illustrated by W. W. Denslow is one of the most expensive Broadway musicals of all time.
Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman had a 50/50 chances for this musical to succeed considering its initial success from 1902.
But they decided is worth gambling and that’s how Wicked was born and the rest is history.
Its budget estimated of $16.9, Wicked broke every record, winning numerous Tony awards, and garnering critical acclaim.
Is considered one of the most beloved musicals of all time. And the fifth highest grossing Broadway musical in history.
