As the planet is in Wicked mania with the release of the blockbuster film adaptation, breaking records. With said film only being half of the story, theatregoers in Manchester can see the whole thing, with the stage show concluding its nationwide tour at the Palace Theatre.
‘Wicked’ tells the untold tale of the Wicked Witch of the West, shedding light on what happened in Oz long before Dorothy’s arrival. As the Emerald Curtain is drawn back, we discover that not everything is quite as Wicked as it seems.
As soon as Stephen Schwartz’s iconic overture kicks in from the 14-person strong orchestra, you immediately know you are in for something truly special. Twenty-one years after its Broadway, the music is still as iconic and captivating as ever. From the hilarious first impression that Elphaba (Laura Pick) and Glinda (Sarah O’Connor) make on each other in ‘Popular’ to the powerfully haunting ‘No Good Deed’, each and every song is truly exceptional.
Laura Pick’s spine-tingling performance reminds us why ‘Defying Gravity’ remains one of the greatest act one finales in contemporary musical theatre. From the orchestra to the vocals to the staging, this iconic moment is musical theatre perfection.
Sarah O’Connor steals the show entirely as Glinda, delivering a hilarious take on the character. Her impeccable comic timing had the audience in stitches throughout. She was truly the heart of the show, with breathtaking operatic vocals to match. Flanked by Carl Man as the most charming Fiyero and a whole host of other characters, this production boasts no weak links whatsoever.
Having won Tonys for both set design and costuming, Wicked transports its audience effortlessly to Oz. Even decades on, it impresses just as much as it did back in 2003! From top hats with multiple peaks to Glinda’s princess-like bubble dress, it is a feast for the eyes. Those with a keener eye may even notice Elphaba’s clothing becoming more detailed and intricate as her character becomes more and more powerful as the story progresses.
It’s impossible not to understand why this musical theatre staple continues to generate so much buzz every time it flies into Manchester. Wicked runs at Manchester's Palace Theatre until Sunday 12 January 2025.
Note: My ticket was gifted. Irrespective of whether a show is gifted or bought, I always ensure that my reviews are fair and based on my honest opinion alone. Additionally, image and trailer show a previous cast.