Sweet Oz! The world of *Wicked* is not just a distant dream anymore; fans can soon step into Munchkinland—well, almost.

In bringing the beloved Broadway musical to the silver screen, director Jon M. Chu took the art of practical sets to a monumental level. The film was shot across 17 stages and four enormous backlots, each as expansive as four American football fields. Among these magnificent sets was Munchkinland’s picturesque village, which flourished in a sea of vibrant tulips. To achieve this breathtaking visual, a staggering nine million tulips were grown.

Initially, production designer Nathan Crowley faced skepticism regarding the ambitious plan to use real flowers instead of visual effects. However, his dedication to capturing everything organically in camera aligned perfectly with Chu’s vision. "I said, ‘I have to do this, and you have to go with me,’" Crowley recounted in a recent interview. His commitment convinced the production team to support his bold idea.

Next came the Herculean task of sourcing and cultivating the extensive quantity of tulips. Crowley consulted with his location manager, Adam Richards, and they connected with a tulip farmer named Mark Eves in Norfolk, England. Eves agreed to assist with the intricate process of planting and nurturing the remarkable nine million bulbs.

"They were the colors of the rainbow," said Crowley, reflecting on the stunning display that unfolded. The tulips not only served as a vibrant backdrop for the film’s visuals but also complemented the opening number, “No One Mourns the Wicked,” set in the quaint Munchkin Village.

Crowley’s previous experience with agriculture on the set of *Interstellar*, where he managed to cultivate 500 acres of corn, gave him confidence in his ambitious floral endeavor. "I knew it could work with the right farmer," he explained, embodying the spirit of innovation that characterized the production.

Now, the burning question remains: what happened to these nine million tulips once the cameras stopped rolling? According to Crowley, the journey of these remarkable plants is far from over. "Mark [Eves] plants them," he states. Tulip farming is a meticulous process; after blooming, the heads are chopped off, allowing the bulbs to grow larger for future seasons. Eves took the bulbs and continued their cultivation.

Excitingly, Eves' Belmont Farms will open to the public next April, transforming into a whimsical wonderland where visitors can not only experience the enchanting tulip fields but also immerse themselves in the magic of Oz’s Munchkinland. This unique opportunity allows fans of *Wicked* to connect with their favorite story in a breathtaking and colorful setting.

So mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to wander through a real-life Munchkinland! You won't want to miss this blooming spectacle! 🌷✨