“Wicked” Reviewed by Amy Menzel ( Milwaukee)

***** There’s no place like…The Marcus Performing Arts Center in Milwaukee, because Wicked is in town now through August 17.

Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel of the same name, Wicked is a retelling of the story leading up to Dorothy’s adventures in The Wizard of Oz. We pick up years earlier, before Glinda became known as “The Good Witch,” and Elphaba became known as “The Wicked Witch of the West.” We learn that Glinda and Elphaba were actually friends – and that, perhaps, the truth behind their legacies is more complicated than we may have ever imagined.

It’s a compelling story, which is likely what Stephen Schwartz (music and lyrics) and Winnie Holzman (book) thought when they adapted it for the Broadway stage. Of course, I’m far from the first million or so to sing their praises, but I’d still like it to be on record that I am in awe of what they’ve created. I haven’t read Maguire’s book (but it’s now on my TBR list), nor had I seen the show or the movie leading up to last night (I know. I know!), but I haven’t been living under a rock (or an emerald), so I was familiar with numbers like “Popular,” “Defying Gravity,” and “For Good.” I knew I was in for something special and this touring production does not disappoint.

In a word, Wicked is spectacular. The sets (Eugene Lee) and lighting design (Kenneth Posner), the wigs and hair (Tom Watson) and the costumes (oh my goodness, the costumes by Susan Hilferty) – all of it is stunning. And then there’s a cast rich with talent that brings the story to life.

Jessie Davidson is an incredible Elphaba. Somehow she seems to gain strength as the show goes on. “No Good Deed” in the second act is a powerful performance. Zoe Jensen plays Glinda with an equal dose of incredible talent, and her portrayal shines light on the nuance of the character. Both leads are surrounded by a great ensemble. Collectively, they’re mesmerizing in larger musical numbers (and, again, stunning in those remarkable costumes).

A musical isn’t a musical without an orchestra to play the score, and Wicked’s orchestra is composed of a traveling ensemble and several talented local musicians. Faith Seetoo conducts and all deserve an additional bravo for their performance.

There’s much to love about Wicked and Thursday’s audience expressed their love in various ways throughout the evening. During the first act, I heard a Matthew McConaughey-like “alright, alright, alright” as the crowd applauded for an early number. I could see several patrons wiping away emotional tears as the lights came up for intermission. And I spotted a woman just a few seats down reach out for her friend’s hand when Glinda and Elphaba began to sing “For Good.”

After the final note of the finale, as the applause crescendoed into an appreciative roar, I heard someone behind me give the show six ‘wows.’ “Wow. Wow, wow, wow, wow, wow.” I second this review, and add an additional ‘wow,’ or two. Translated to an Around the Town Chicago rating, that’s a solid ★★★★★

Wicked plays at Uihlein Hall at the Marcus Performing Arts Center (Milwaukee) and runs through August 17.

Tuesday – Friday – 7:30 p.m.
Saturday – 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday – 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Sign Language Interpretation: August 2 at 2:00 pm

Wicked runs 2 hours and 45 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.

It looks like you still might be able to snag a seat for around $70, if you’re lucky and, perhaps, don’t mind a seat with a limited view. August 12 might be your best bet if you’re looking for more options. Whatever you do, do it quickly. Tickets are limited.

Purchase tickets at MarcusCenter.org, by calling 414-273-7206, or by visiting the Marcus Center Box Office at 929 North Water Street, Milwaukee.

If you’d like to make a little Milwaukee getaway out of your trip north to see Wicked, I highly recommend staying at Saint Kate – the Arts Hotel. Check it out at saintkatearts.com. (If you don’t have time to stay the night, consider heading to the city early to check out Saint Kate’s current exhibits and to grab a cocktail at the Bar. Give yourself some time to enjoy before making the walk across the street to the Marcus Performing Arts Center for the show).

Editor note: Milwaukee is about an hour north of Chicagoland, and while it seems far, you will get there in less time than heading into Chicago. Coming home might be a bit longer, but all in all, you will have an easy trip and parking is easy ( and less expensive- sometimes free) in Milwaukee. If possible, do a “staycation” and stay in town for a day, it is special!