Based on Gregory Maguire's novel, 'Wicked' is the story of
the unlikely friendship between two girls with opposing personalities, and
their remarkable journey in the Land of Oz to ultimately becoming Elphaba - the
wicked witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Elbhaba was born green with
gifted talent. She studies sorcery with Glinda at Shiz University and becomes a
powerful witch. Glinda is characterized by her popularity and ambition, and for
being a very bubbly and perky girl. The two girls start out as best friends and
roommates at Shiz University, later to discover dislike for one another in
college; drama ensues. Other than their desire to win power, love and celebrity
the two girls did not have anything in common. In their quest for power, it's
because that Glinda chose not to join Elphaba, that she becomes Glinda the
Good.
The touring version of 'Wicked' showcases two excellent
leads, Jennifer Dinoia as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Hayley
Podschun as Glinda, the Good Witch. DiNioa plays the protagonist with just the
right mixture of intelligence, humor and altruism. Also, She can sing, which
comes handy especially with the showstopper 'Defying Gravity'. Whereas, Podschun
produces the perfectly balanced mix of ingredients including, epileptic and
narcissism with a pinch of crazy, and I-want-what-she-has quality that Glinda's
character requires in 'Wicked'. However, she also has the flexibility to
change. Elphaba knows who she is, while Glinda transforms completely from
solipsism to unselfishness.
Wicked can most accurately be classified as a comedy
musical, as it uses the fictitious Land of Oz to satirize society's political,
ethical and social values. With its unforgettable amazing characters, dramatic
plot, contrasting set pieces, flawless music, marvelously original costumes,
stage-design and seamless special affects, Wicked the musical is enough for the
audience to keep coming back for more!
