Since its Broadway debut in 2003, “Wicked” has been one of the most recognizable and appealing productions in musical theater history. This three-time Tony Award winning show continues its national tour with its most recent stop here in Tempe at Gammage.
For those unfamiliar with the Broadway world, “Wicked” is a prelude to the familiar tale “The Wizard of Oz.” However, it focuses on the relationship between the self-described “beautifully tragic” Elphaba, nicknamed Elphie, and her nemesis turned friend Galinda Upland and how they became the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
Fans of “The Wizard of Oz” can appreciate the irony of misunderstood Elphaba and the not so genuine Galinda as each possess their own ambitions to improve the Land of Oz. The production touches upon the messages of inner beauty and true goodness while depicting both the fruits and dangers of seeking to “defy gravity.”
This production emits chills from the opening number, which reveals the scandalous background of Elphaba’s birth, to the final scene where Glinda and Elphaba part with a dramatic farewell.
Mamie Parris, who plays Elphaba, belts out the notorious solo numbers “The Wizard and I” and “No Good Deed.”
Her standout moment, however, proves to be when she is lifted into the air during “Defying Gravity.” Parris remarkably portrays Elphie as an unappreciated, yet gifted girl who mistakenly believes the Wizard (played by Mark Jacoby) will answer her longing for acceptance.
A challenge with bringing a successful show off Broadway or to a national tour is the comparison of the current performers to the original cast.
Actress Katie Rose Clarke delivered a unique rendition of Glinda the Good, keeping the same spunk and pep while embellishing the signature “toss, toss” of her golden locks. Elphie and Glinda’s clashing feelings toward each other are united with their common weakness and sentiment for rebel-rouser, Fiyero (Kyle Dean Massey) heard in the ballad, “I’m Not That Girl.”
The emerald spotlights, the elaborate costumes, the constant backdrops revealing scene changes and even the hanging dragon all contribute to this phenomenon that has taken over cities worldwide. “Wicked” has been touring since 2005, though transporting this immense show is no easy task.
Nightly crews of about 130 people work their own magic behind the curtain. Technical director Lisa Adamsen briefly described the load-in process as a much lengthier procedure than most other touring shows.
It takes two and a half days to completely unload the trucks and set the stage before opening night, compared to “Mamma Mia,” which executes the same process and opens the show all in one day.
In order to put on a successful show every night, the cast and crew must adapt to each city, keep in shape and get lots of rest for this vocally demanding show, said production manager Jason Daunter.
Liz McCartney, who plays Madame Morrible, Elphaba’s mentor with hidden motives, has performed both on Broadway and national tours.
According to McCartney, the musical “appeals to such a broad demographic and that's what keeps people coming back again and again … ‘Wicked’ teaches a person that it's okay to be different and that everyone is special. (That) is the most important and memorable part of performing in this show.”
Students who are looking to save money can participate in the lottery drawing held each day two and a half hours prior to showtime. Arrive at the ASU Gammage Box Office for a chance to win orchestra seats for $25, cash only. “Wicked” runs until March 11 at Gammage.
Reach the reporter at mkthomp5@asu.edu
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