'Wicked' is Wicked

I watched my second musical in London today - Wicked. On Jon Fok's recommendation, I caught it with him and a few of his friends. The show lived up and even surpassed expectations (which were really high, considering I was paying 45 pounds for it), and I am more than happy to part with my money.

Basically, the show is adapted from the Wizard of Oz and proposes that the Wicked Witch of the West is not wicked, but actually the victim of societal prejudices and a 'smear campaign' orchestrated by none other than the 'wonderful' Wizard of Oz.

From Tony Award winner, Idina Menzel (Elphaba aka the Wicked Witch) to the rest of the supporting cast, the vocals were fantastic, with many a number leaving my skin tingling with delight. The satire and wit woven into the storyline were thoroughly enjoyable and easily appreciated by anyone with prior knowledge of the Wizard of Oz story. Coupled with the fact that we got pretty good seats, it made the whole musical experience absolutely fantastic.

All that being said, this performance really set the bar for musicals really high. I doubt I be able to say another musical is good for a long time to come.

This show is a definite must watch, though preferably before Idina Menzel, who was originally cast in the Chicago production of the show, ends her run at the end of October. I'm sure you'll think the show is pure Wicked too.