Theatre review: Wicked
Apollo Victoria Theatre
17 Wilton Rd
London, SW1V 1LG – map
London-production type: West End
Rating: *** (out of 5)
Review by: Alexa Williamson
Wicked is the very pretty, but light story of the making – and friendship between - two of Oz’s most famous characters: Elphaba the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch of the North.
Based on the book by Winnie Holzman, this story starts long before Dorothy arrives and kills Elphaba’s sister, the Wicked Witch of the East. It tells how both witches were found to have powers worth developing as little girls. It then goes on to delineate their experiences at school and how Elphaba is the nicer and more powerful of the two, yet Glinda becomes the beloved and well-dressed good witch and Elphaba becomes a rued outcast.
The musical is most noted for its gorgeous costumes, interesting dance routines and the fact that it expands the story of the Wizard of Oz. And being a feast for the eyes, the so-so songs and bland plotline are excusable. Worth seeing for the visual experience, but not much to take away with you afterwards.
Further information:
Wicked (Official site includes synopsis)
Hey,
I’ve attempted to do one myself but my writing leaves much to be desired. Any tips?
I love your review
By the way Wicked is based on the novel by Gregory Maguire and Winnie then made it into a musical sort of book. Sorry to seem all corrective but I’m just trying to be helpful.
I agree with some of your review but I think there is more to the plot than first meets to eye. Like the Wizard lying to the Citizens of Oz to keep them happy and stay in Power and Madam Morrible trying to work her way up at any cost. There’s also the love story of Fiyero and Elphaba.
I really enjoyed your review.