94-Year-Old Grandmother's Nostalgic Experience Watching 'Wicked'

Wicked has taken over screens and hearts worldwide. The movie, which captures the magic of Oz, is known for its story of friendship and acceptance. The musical has become a must-see for audiences of all ages. For 94-year-old JoAnn Van Dam, Wicked holds an even deeper meaning and significance.

JoAnn attended the premiere of The Wizard of Oz in 1939 as an 8-year-old child, and eight and half decades later, she found herself experiencing the magic again when she watched Wicked in theaters. This time, she sat alongside her granddaughter, Alison, and daughter, Lois.

JoAnn Van Dam was impressed with ‘Wicked’

@alison.vandam Core memory today. ?? #wicked #wickedmovie #arianagrande #cynthiaerivo ♬ original sound – .ᐟ ✴︎ ⠀࣪˖ – ᐢ. .ᐢ

JoAnn’s experience with Wicked brought back memories of seeing The Wizard of Oz for the first time. “Back then, fantasy was so new, and we didn’t know what to expect,” she shared, reflecting on how exceptional the film’s shift to color had been. Seeing Wicked, with its visuals and effects, left her impressed. “I was amazed by everything—the big screen, the special effects, and those flying monkeys!” she said.

Her granddaughter Alison shared that she was joyful seeing her grandmother excited. “It was incredible to watch her reactions,” Alison said, adding that JoAnn’s amazement at the effects was contagious. Alison captured parts of the experience in a now-viral TikTok, which resonated with viewers who shared their own memories of bonding with grandparents. “I didn’t expect it to blow up, but it’s touching to see how this brought back memories for so many people.”

The second installment of ‘Wicked’ will be released in 2025

For Alison and her mother, Lois, the experience was more than just watching a movie. “It’s humbling to share this with my mom and daughter,” Lois said. “Mom’s stories of seeing The Wizard of Oz as a child make it even more meaningful to witness her joy now.”