The spellbindingly spectacular Wicked is billed as a must-see theatrical experience, and it certainly is that!
Wicked is set against a backdrop of propaganda and fake news, and tells the incredible origin story of the good witch Glinda and the green-skinned outcast destined to become the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, from the L. Frank Baum classic, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
Following an encounter with The Wizard, the pair’s friendship reaches a crossroads, and their lives take very different turns.
Alongside thought-provoking themes of discrimination and abuse of power – meaning you may never look at The Wizard of Oz in the same way again – is a captivating storyline of magic and mystery, littered with some of Stephen Schwartz’s most memorable songs, Defying Gravity, Dancing Through Life, and Popular.
The set, choreography, lighting, costumes and make-up are absolutely outstanding. It’s certainly one of the best on the road productions I have had the pleasure of witnessing, and both the casting leads and ensemble are nothing short of phenomenal.
The charismatic Sarah O’Connor plays Glinda the Good, with a portrayal that is both charming and personable, whilst Laura Pick is the misunderstood Elphaba, and has a stage presence and performance that is literally show-stopping – there were a few times that the cast had to pause to allow the audience to finish applauding.
Cemented in the history of musical theatre, after 18 years this show continues to deliver exactly what audiences want – it has humour and heart, and the comedic timing ensures the audience remain engaged with the script on a stage that is as weird and wonderful as the film it relates to.
It may have been my first time seeing this magnificent musical extravaganza, but it won’t be the last.
It truly is wicked!
Tickets for Wicked (23 May – 16 June 2024) are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811.
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