Let me preface this post by saying Gregory Maguire's novel is one of my all time favorite books. I think it is a literary masterpiece that expertly explores very difficult political themes and features a beautifully crafted version of Oz and extremely well developed characters. Every time I read it, I get something new out of it and pick up on different things. The novel is very much an "adult book" that is not child or family friendly.
The musical adaptation, in my opinion, is 100% a "“fun, family-friendly, colorful show” that is basically a Disney-fied and watered down adaptation of Maguire's original novel and concept. I'm not saying the musical is BAD, I really enjoy it, but it is definitely family entertainment, especially when stacked up against the novel.
I'm really looking forward to the film, and I'm hoping to see some more things from the novel incorporated. The musical just scratches the surface on the political themes that are now (sadly) more timely than when the novel was originally published.
"There’s nothing quite like the power and the passion of Broadway music. "