There was trouble in Oz long before Dorothy and Toto showed up. “Wicked,” on stage now at the Murat Theatre, tells the story of how Glinda and Elphaba, aka the wicked witch of the west, first meet. Though complete opposites, the two characters form an unlikely bond. The musical, based on the novel of the same name, weaves elements of the famous children’s book into a new, darker tale, which reveals that things are not always as simple as they seem.
You’d be hard-pressed to find more beautiful and elaborate sets anywhere in Indianapolis. From simple cornfields to the sparkling Emerald City, no detail is neglected and it’s easy to forget that this is a mobile production. The fantastical costumes provide an eyeful in every scene as well.
During the performance I attended Vicki Noon starred as Elphaba and Glinda was played by the understudy, Rachel Potter. Potter hit her stride in the number “Popular,” using both physical comedy and hilarious energy to embody the perky character. Noon nailed all of her big numbers, like “Defying Gravity” and “No Good Deed,” hitting both the notes and the emotional intensity necessary. Both Glinda and Elphaba are forced to grow up quickly in the show and the pair did a wonderful job demonstrating that painful transition into maturity.
This is the third time I’ve seen the show and I’ve loved it more with each viewing. I can’t think of anyone who I wouldn’t recommend it to and I’ve yet to find someone who’s been disappointed by it. It’s a powerful story of friendship and prejudice, but it balances those heavy themes with a large dose of humor. It’s a musical with a message and it reminds us that evil isn’t always the obvious target. Sometimes it’s the quiet voice suggesting the easy way out and it takes a true hero to resist that temptation.
Don't Miss the Show
The show will be in town for two more weeks. Don’t miss your chance to experience “Wicked” for yourself. Tickets are going fast for the popular show, so don't miss your chance to see it. The show runs until Saturday, Jan. 1 at the Murat Theatre. Tickets can be purchased at Clowes Memorial Hall, the Murat Theatre, by calling (800)-982-2787 or online at www.broadwayacrossamerica.com. Ticket prices start at $50.
Broadway Across America is holding a lottery for every single "Wicked" performance. Individuals are welcome to put their names in a lottery drum two and a half hours before each show. Exactly two hours before the show begins officials will draw a maximum of 20 names. Those individuals are permitted to buy up to two tickets for $25 each(cash only). The lottery will be held in the Murat Theatre lobby before each show and you must be present to win.
Photos Courtesy of Broadway Across America
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