"Dear Old Shiz" is a song featured in the 2024 film Wicked which was written and composed by Stephen Schwartz. It is performed by Ariana Grande as Glinda Upland and the students of Shiz University.
Background[]
In the song, Glinda tells the Ozians that she did indeed go to school with Elphaba. The film flashbacks to their years in college, opening with their alma mater at Shiz University. Elphaba makes her entrance during this song by running through the doors in the clock to the front of the stage while Galinda comes and sits on a large pile of luggage pushed by a few boys. The song serves as a nostalgic reflection on the characters' time at Shiz University, highlighting the bond between Glinda and Elphaba Thropp, the future Wicked Witch of the West.
Lyrics[]
Ozian in the Crowd:
Glinda! Is it true you were her friend?
Glinda:
Well, it depends what you mean by "friend." I did know her. That is, our paths did cross. At school...
Students:
O hallowed halls and vine-draped walls
The proudliest sight there is
When grey and sere our hair hath turned
We shall still revere the lessons learned
In our days at dear old Shiz (Dear old Shiz)
Our days at dear old—
Glinda:
Oh-Oh-Oh-Oh-Old...
Students and Glinda:
Shiz-zzzz (Dear old Shiz-zzzz)
