A giant inflatable witch hat, perched on the Macy's sign, kicks off the Wicked festivities. Scenes from the musical, which features a book by Winnie Holzman, will be featured in a special window of the World's Largest Store. A Macy's spokesperson added, "We'll have the windows covered in the map of Oz as they do in the show, and they will be unveiled by the monkeys from the show, who'll be coming down the marquee from behind the giant witch hat!"

The Wicked window is part of Macy's new initiative, "Broadway on 34th Street," to support and promote the best of Broadway. Recent window displays have included props and puppets from the hit musical Avenue Q as well as one that saluted the Manhattan Theatre Club's new Broadway home at the Biltmore Theatre.

In a statement, Macy's Group Vice-President of Annual and Special Events, Robin Hall, said, "We are very excited about this new initiative that underscores our long-standing ties with the Broadway community." The Oct. 23 Wicked celebration will also feature guest appearances by the aforementioned stars, an adults-only costume contest and prizes, including tickets to the show.

Macy's Herald Square is located on Broadway between 34th and 35th Streets. For more information, go to www.macys.com.

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Wicked began previews Oct. 7 at the Gershwin Theatre; its official opening is scheduled for Oct. 30. Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, the musical explores the early life of the witches of Oz: Glinda and Elphaba. Tickets are now available by calling (212) 307-4100 or by visiting www.ticketmaster.com.