Wicked Fans, Read the Room: AMC's No-Sing Rule Sparks Debate

Images via Dave Dugdale / Flickr; Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock

The magic of Wicked is set to hit the silver screen this week with the highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway classic, starring Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. But not everyone is thrilled about how audiences are asked to experience the iconic musical numbers.

AMC Theaters is drawing a firm line: no singing allowed. In a lighthearted yet clear pre-show advisory, the theatre chain laid down the law with a Wicked-themed message: “No talking. No texting. No singing. No wailing. No flirting. And absolutely no name-calling. Enjoy the magic of movies.” While the policy is nothing new, AMC emphasises these rules now more than ever, given the temptation posed by timeless tunes like Defying Gravity and Popular.

@arweirr

i did like it tho #wicked #pleasedontsing #oscars

The announcement has stirred up a debate online, with opinions as divided as the Emerald City itself. Some fans appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the film uninterrupted, echoing sentiments like, “I came to hear Ariana Grande, not the person next to me.” Others, however, admit they might struggle to hold back their inner Broadway star.

@jordycray

Time and place! #fyp #foryou #wicked #wickedmovie #arianagrande #cynthiaerivo #musical #popculture #popculturenews

Wicked flies into theaters on November 22. What do you think: should theatres stick to silence, or embrace the sing-along spirit?