EVERYTHING A MUSICAL CAN BE
I saw WICKED when it opened, then I saw it again, and now I'm seeing it for a third time. I'm not a WICKED fanatic or a crazed musical theatre obsessive but it's easy to understand why this is such a popular show.
For all those who deride musical theatre as lacking gravitas and depth they should come and see a show that is witty, clever, slick and very well performed.
WICKED begins with a dramatic opening in the Land of Oz, and all seems well in this fantasy land as we see two brand new sorcery students arrive at Shiz University. One is the blonde, flighty self indulged Glinda, the other, her complete opposite, the shy, angry and completely green Elphaba. It's a clash of two worlds as the two girls bitch and fight before being brought together to become great friends. Alas, this friendship falls apart as one is seduced by fame and popularity whilst the other tries to fight for her beliefs and justice. The dashing ‘Prince' Fiyero adds some spice to the mix as this skilfully woven tale reveals the untold tale of this magical land and its dark secrets. The book is so strong you are engaged from the word go and the thrust of the show drives it forward.
WICKED is everything a musical can be: poignant, sincere, funny and inspiring. I really can't think of many shows that make you feel duty bound to take your friends along next time.
A rare and enriching Emerald.
Gary Brackett
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