For the first time in its history, Shea's Performing Arts Center is extending its Broadway season past Independence Day.

Make that well past the July Fourth holiday.

The popular Broadway show "Wicked" will cap Shea's 2007-2008 season with a month-long run that goes from June 18 to July 13, making it the first touring musical to run deep into July. Typically, Shea's wraps up its Broadway season in early June.

"We've done shows in the summer, but not that often," said Anthony Conte, Shea's president. "This is an untested experience for us."
A few summers ago, Shea's brought in "Miss Saigon" for a two-week run in early August.

"Judging by early comments and interest in tickets, I think the show is going to be a strong enough draw that the timing shouldn't be an issue," Conte said.

"Wicked," a prequel to the popular "Wizard of Oz", is playing to sold-out audiences in New York. This season marks the first time it has hit the road.

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