“Wicked” returns to standing ovation

[rating=5]Theater is back and so is “Wicked”. People claim that “Wicked” is Chicago’s most popular musical, as it was here for years and I believe most of the city has seen it at least once. In fact, they had buttons tonight- some say “I have seen Wicked—- times” and others “This is my first time seeing “Wicked”. I know this was my third and judging from those who were dressed in witch hats , I would think many have seen numerous productions or the same production many times. Why not? It is a touching saga that explains the pre “Wizard of Oz” story, but from a different angle>

“Wicked” with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman is based on a novel by Gregory Maguire, who evidently felt that people deserved to fill in the blanks about the Wonderful land of Oz!. The production now on the stage at The Nederlander Theatre is well directed ( Joe Mantello) and choreographed (in this case termed musical staging as it is not really dance), by Wayne Cilento. It is an interesting story in that we learn early about the birth of Elphaba ( a powerful performance by Lissa deGuzman) and although we know her mother had an affair, it isn’t until late in the play that we learn more about that incident. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the show, she is the “green” witch. Glinda ( the good witch) is played to perfection by Jennafer Newberry. They meet at school. Glinda is loved by all and of course Elphaba is avoided. Elphaba is only sent to school to care for her sister, Nessarose (Kimberly Immanuel) who is in a wheelchair.

During the play we learn of the two ladies’ personalities and how different they are from each other. In fact, a little different from what one might expect. The question comes up, “Is someone born Wicked?” I think they are trying to tell us that a good person, if mistreated, might just become wicked with time. In this story, Glinda is selfish and unfeeling about others to a point that is beyond “valley girl”. Elphaba is a caring person who cares about each and every person and or animal  she comes in contact with. The events of this saga change the outcome of this prequel. You will find yourself examining some of what you see in order to see how it fits the story we have been told for so many years. Don’t think that hard. Relax, sit back and enjoy this amazing work.

The music in this production is strong, starting from “The Wizard and I” which tells an amazing story. “Popular” is probably the best known songs for Galinda ( her name before she changes it to Glinda) and the “Defying Gravity” at the end of Act One will have you on the edge of your seat, ready to rise and give Ms DeGuzman an ovation. She has the pipes!

This is a strong cast. Fiyero (Jordan Litz) is the man that creates a love triangle. Galinda has selected him for her mate, but he falls in love with Elphaba. As the story unfolds the triangle will become more but not wanting to give anything away, I will only tell you that your concept of “The Wizard of Oz” movie will be just a little different after you watch “Wicked”. You will also learn more about The Wizard ((John Bolton) and his abilities as well as  Madame Morrible ( deftly handled by Natalie Venetia Belcon). The ensemble was strong and in tonight’s performance Boq , the munchkin was played by Andy Richardson and the midwife by Kelly LaFarga. I mention them as most reviews never get to do so for an understudy or swing and they are hardworking performers often learning more than one role and ready at anytime to hit the boards.

The show is spectacle for sure. It was created to be with Galinda floating in her bubble and brooms flying, monkeys flying and Elphaba soaring to new heights. Almost three hours of great storytelling, great music and loads of talent. You won’t want to miss a second. The great thing about this show is it will be at The Nederlander Theatre located at 24 West Randolph Street thru December  4th with performances as follows:

Tuesdays  7:30 p.m.

Wednesdays  2 p.m. and  7:30 p.m.

Thursdays  7:30 p.m.

Fridays   7:30 p.m.

Saturdays  2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Sundays  2 p.m. ( October 2nd an additional 7:30 p.m.

NO PERFORMANCE on Thursday, November 24th- Happy Turkey Day

On Friday, November 25th a 2 p.m. show will be added.

Tickets range from $59 and are available at www.BroadwayInChicago.com or at any of the Broadway In Chicago box offices

parking- call 773-436-PARK for special rates.

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Wicked”.