Theater Review – Wicked

The national tour of “Wicked” is in town and I was lucky enough to score tickets! My expectations were very high from the get go because the traveling cast features one of the original Broadway actors as well as Tom McGowan seen on “Frasier,” “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “Bad Santa” and others, so the talent was sure to be incredible! “Wicked” absolutely lived up to my expectations. It is full of technological magic, creative and funny songs and the actors are energetic from start to finish! If the tour comes to your area, don’t miss this one of a kind show! You’ll laugh and smile and be taken in by the stories of Galinda and Elphaba.

Pros:
- The Sets – Next to “Les Mis,” “Wicked” has one of the most impressive sets I’ve ever seen. To start with, there’s a movable, light-up dragon at the top of the proscenium arch, there’s a re-creation of the infamous Wizard of Oz floating head, Emerald City’s flashing lights and glimmer, Glinda’s traveling bubble and much more!

- The Songs – Both catchy and memorable. It’s a good thing they sell the soundtrack in the lobby because you’ll want it as soon as the curtain call is through.

- Galinda (yes, that's correct) – Helene Yorke, ‘Galinda/Glinda’ in the version I saw, is so darn cute and full of energy! Her role was originated by Kristin Chenoweth, which can clearly be seen in the mannerisms and quirky voice requirements of the role. But Yorke also brings a great sense of comedic timing and a truly beautiful singing voice to the stage.

- The Make-Up – I really want to know what type of make-up is used to make the Wicked Witch of the West green – from head to toe! She touches people, I’m sure the actress is sweating a little, and it never smears or comes off! Amazing!



- Learning the Back Stories – Not only are the stories of the Wicked Witch and the Good Witch revealed, but “Wicked” also tells us how the Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion and Tin Man come about.

Cons:
- The Second Act – Although everyone in the show is talented, the second act is just a bummer! The songs seem to drag, everything is gloomy, Elphaba’s intentions are all misunderstood, and it just gets to be draining.



Summary:
“Wicked” is a terrific and imaginative show that the audience and actors really seem to enjoy. The national tour was as high a quality as any Broadway show would be. The actors are extremely talented and have beautiful voices. It’s obvious that everyone involved puts forth 110%! I’d see it again without thinking twice!