Over a decade ago “Wicked” flew in, stunned audiences, won all kinds of awards and propelled many of its actors into stardom. Since then, more than 8 million people in New York have seen the musical, and thanks to the touring productions, at least five times that have seen the musical worldwide.

As it’s been almost two years since “Wicked” has allowed the Gershwin Theater to drop to under 85 percent capacity, no producer in his right mind will close “Wicked” anytime soon. While the musical has been selling out nine simultaneous productions on five different continents, a musical adaptation of “Tuck Everlasting” announced it would not be able to continue with its announced Broadway production because a theater was not available. Which is why “Wicked” should be retired on Broadway. There are plenty of long-running shows out there that need to step down off the marquee to allow some new talent to shine.

Shows such as “Rock of Ages,” “Jersey Boys” and “Mamma Mia” (each of which dipped below 85 percent just last week) have had very good runs, but have outstayed their welcome. Each of these shows have international and touring productions in place and will by no means die if they’re taken off Broadway. A Broadway run could give a young production like “Tuck Everlasting” the life 
it needs.

These shows have had their chance at “Defying Gravity” and now they’re plenty “Popular,” so would you listen to “A Sentimental Man” and allow a new show to have “One Short Day” on “Broadway?”