WIcked

Celebrating 20 years on the Great White Way, Broadway’s Wicked does not fail to impress. Based on L. Frank Baum’s fantasy book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Wicked tells the story of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good before and during the events of the Wizard of Oz. Weaving in themes of friendship, isolation, and the struggles of doing the “right thing,” the musical starts with how the two met at school and follows them through young adulthood until the Wicked Witch’s ultimate demise.

Glinda, portrayed by McKenzie Kurtz, sings in her signature sound with floating, gorgeous high notes and ringing vibrato. While as an adult she plays the part of the strong, understanding, good leader, the moment we are transported back to her school days, she is extremely shallow and self-absorbed, the difference in personalities striking and well-executed by the actor. Her childish behavior and immature mindset also allows her to be a major source of comedy for the show. Kurtz’s humor consistently led to laughs throughout the audience as every joke hit. 

Elphaba, played by Alyssa Fox, is the other star of the show, a young woman that does her best to not let other peoples’ hurtful and fearful words impact her and will stand up for her beliefs and what’s right. Fox’s powerful belt shines throughout the show from her first major solo, “The Wizard and I,” to the iconic “Defying Gravity.” Her ability to make Elphaba a charismatic and sympathetic anti-hero as well as her dry humor and sarcasm make her fantastic for the role. 

Michelle Pawk, who plays one of Elphaba and Glinda’s most important mentors at school, Madame Morrible, and the Wizard, played by John Dossett, both are excellent in their deceptively plot-twisting roles. The ensemble of the show was incredible, with tight choreography, majestic harmonies, and an impressive ability to really make Elphaba’s magical powers come to life. The chemistry between all the actors was amazing whether it was the blend their voices formed or the realness of their relationships.

Overall, Wicked is a fun, uplifting show, and people of all ages are sure to find something to enjoy in it. Whether it’s your first time seeing something onstage or your thirtieth, you’re sure to have an enchanting night with the wonderful witches of Oz.