A recent pantomime performance, known as the “Willy Wonka Experience 2.0,” faced criticism as families left midway through the show. ‘The Wicked Wizard of Oz: Cirque Spectacular’ show at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro received numerous complaints, with attendees expressing disappointment and some demanding refunds, likening the production to inferior school performances.
Following the lackluster show, disgruntled spectators formed a Facebook group titled ‘The Woeful Wicked Wizard of Oz – A Not-So Cirque Spectacular,’ which has amassed over 1,500 members. The production company, World’s Biggest Productions, had promoted the show as a fusion of panto and Cirque, based on Frank L. Baum’s renowned tale. However, parents in attendance criticized it as misleading, overpriced, and not as advertised.
One parent, who spent £297 for a family ticket, compared the disappointing experience to the infamous Willy’s Chocolate Experience that went viral in 2024. Another attendee described the show as chaotic, lacking coherence, and criticized various elements, including the subpar sound quality and unconventional props.
The backlash extended beyond Glasgow, with numerous attendees from different locations sharing their negative experiences on the Facebook page. Comments ranged from expressing disgust and disappointment to questioning the show’s quality and value for money.
In response to the criticisms, a spokesperson for World’s Biggest Productions defended the show, highlighting previous positive reception in Blackpool and clarifying that the show’s title indicated a blend of circus elements with traditional panto humor. The company emphasized that the show’s intention was not to replicate Cirque du Soleil production values but to offer a unique and entertaining experience in line with pantomime traditions.
The Mirror has reached out to World’s Biggest Productions for further comments.