Fans in Scottsdale dressed in pink and green for an exclusive early screening of the highly anticipated sequel.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The highly anticipated movie ‘Wicked: For Good’ doesn’t hit theaters until Friday, but on Wednesday night, a group of lucky fans got an exclusive early screening—all in support of Phoenix Children’s behavioral health program.
RELATED: ‘Wicked’ movie draws in Valley moviegoers on opening day
A sea of pink and green filled Harkins Camelview at Fashion Square in Scottsdale, where the theater was transformed for the special event. For many, the colors could only mean one thing.
“We are very much ‘Wicked’ fans,” said Liz Latham of Camp Verde.
The sequel to last year’s ‘Wicked’ brought out fans of all ages eager to return to Oz.
“I love the movie altogether, so I’m excited for the second one,” said Christine Baker of Mesa.
“We’re so excited to see the movie. I can’t wait to cry,” said Afi Maita, a stylist from Scottsdale.
Eight-year-old Sofia was among the younger fans in attendance.
“I’m really excited,” she said.
“Who’s your favorite? Glinda or Elphaba?” 12News reporter Bianca Buono asked.
“Both,” Sofia replied.
Many attendees showed up in their “Wicked” or “Wizard of Oz”–inspired best.
“I’m a local stylist, and I literally put this together from my different favorite brands,” Maita said, describing her all-green getup.
“This is an Amazon win from head to ankle-ish,” said Lily Monroe of Scottsdale of her pink gown.
The evening blended fashion with philanthropy. Proceeds from the $100 tickets benefit Phoenix Children’s behavioral health program, which supports vulnerable youth in need of help.
“This is where the community steps up,” said Tim Harrison, the vice president of corporate partnerships and special events for Phoenix Children’s Foundation. “This is Arizona Children’s Hospital.”
Harrison said the need for behavioral health care among young people is growing.
“It’s so important. I mean, I think we’ve all seen as social media has changed the way things happen in children’s lives as well as adult lives, but it’s impacting kids. The kids are impacted,” he said. “We’re seeing kids as young as eight turn up with suicide ideation, and that just is something that cannot happen. We can’t have that.”
Harkins partnered with Universal Studios to make the preview possible.
“When it is a cause as important as a behavioral health program at Phoenix Children’s, we’ll do whatever it takes to make it come true. So we’ve partnered with Universal Studios for this early screening of ‘Wicked: For Good,’” said Jessica Reeves, the VP of marketing for Harkins Theatres. “Harkins is an Arizona local company, and we have been proud supporters of Phoenix Children’s for decades.”
Attendees said the event was both meaningful and memorable.
“Time to spend with each other and then also to give to the community,” said Heather Means of Scottsdale.
“It’s a benefit to be able to do this,” Latham said.
‘Wicked: For Good’ officially hits theaters on Friday.
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