This Halloween season, Wicked has flown into the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff, bringing its bewitching story of friendship, rivalry, and unexpected heroism to life.
Running until 23rd November 2024, the production promises an enchanting escape to Oz with all the intrigue, heart, and magic that has made it one of the world’s most beloved musicals. So, grab your broomsticks and prepare for a spellbinding adventure that’s more treat than trick!
The Story
Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, “Wicked” is one of the most successful musicals of all time, bringing the world of L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz to life with an unexpected twist.
The tale begins where the original Wizard of Oz ends—in Munchkinland, just after the Wicked Witch of the West (Elphaba) has been defeated. In a fresh twist, Glinda (or Galinda, as she starts out) introduces us to the surprising fact that she and Elphaba were once acquainted. The story then winds back to Shiz University, offering a journey through Elphaba’s turbulent but inspiring youth.
As Elphaba meets the Wizard, the reality of her world takes a darker turn. Her struggles not only with family and peers but also with complex friendships and unrequited love, humanise the character in an unexpected way. Highlights of Act I build to a breathtaking crescendo with the iconic “Defying Gravity” moment. Act II then gathers pace, aligning more with the familiar Wizard of Oz storyline but through the eyes of Elphaba. We gain new perspectives on familiar characters like the Tinman, Scarecrow, and, surprisingly, how their interactions shape Elphaba’s path. Without giving too much away, the story twists and turns through heartache, betrayal, and resilience, revealing a side to the Wicked Witch we never expected.
Artistic Performance
Laura Pick as Elphaba reinvents the Wicked Witch of the West in ways that make it nearly impossible to picture her as the traditional villain. Her portrayal of Elphaba’s growth, vulnerability, and strength is stunning, giving her character depth and humanity. On the opposite side, Sara O’Connor shines as Glinda, who is, by contrast, wonderfully self-absorbed and self-serving, revealed in performances of songs like “Popular” and “Thank Goodness.” Her vanity and naivety make for a stark contrast to Elphaba’s earnestness.
Carl Man as Fiyero—the heartthrob who eventually becomes the Scarecrow—plays his role with a roguish charm that adds an interesting layer of complexity to the love triangle dynamic. The story of Boq (Jed Berry), who evolves into the Tinman, and his early affection for Nessarose (Megan Gardiner) brings a surprising depth to their characters as well. Madame Morrible (Donna Berlin) is delightfully cunning, while Simeon Truby gives a multifaceted portrayal of the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, showing a complexity behind the curtain that leaves audiences questioning where loyalty and morality really lie.
Staging and Visuals
Wicked’s production strikes a harmonious balance between tangible props and minimalistic digital displays, which allows the imagination to fill in the fantasy. The set is whimsically intricate, setting a mystical and otherworldly scene with delightful quirkiness that keeps audiences captivated. The lack of excessive digital elements lets the props and performances shine, grounding the surreal tale in a captivating realism.
Overall Impressions
The audience’s enchantment with Wicked is unmistakable, and it’s no wonder it has secured its place as a global hit. For anyone who hasn’t experienced Wicked live, it’s an absolute must-see. While The Wizard of Oz combines elements of darkness and humour, Wicked is a journey into fantasy that unveils the unseen layers of Oz’s characters. Although Act I takes its time building the backstory, the payoff in Act II is well worth it, bridging seamlessly into the original story in ways that resonate long after the final curtain.
Things to Note:
- Age Guidance: Suitable for ages 7 and up (no children under 2 allowed).
- Warnings: The production includes loud noises, flashing lights, smoke effects, and strobe lighting.
- Running Time: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including an interval.
Tickets are selling fast, so check availability at Wales Millennium Centre’s website to secure a chance to see this magical performance.
