I’ve Seen Wicked Several Times Before – And It Never Fails to Amaze Me. That’s the magic of taking a beloved story and flipping it on its head. I grew up watching and adoring The Wizard of Oz—a simple tale of good triumphing over evil, with its clear-cut heroes and villains. It was enchanting. A couple of hours of indulgence, marvelling at the legendary Judy Garland and the glitz and sparkle of Oz.
My Review of Wicked at the Palace Theatre, Manchester
Watching Wicked changes how you’ll ever view The Wizard of Oz. Inspired by Gregory Maguire’s novel, Wicked serves as a prequel to the film, but more than that, it reimagines the land of Oz. It infuses the magical world with raw realities, adding a darker, more thought-provoking edge—all delivered with stunning spectacle.
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About Wicked
Over 65 million people in more than 130 cities across 16 countries have experienced Wicked, which has won over 100 major awards. Its recent film adaptation has shattered box office records globally, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon.
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The story introduces us to Glinda (played by Sarah O’Connor) and Elphaba (played by Laura Pick), who meet on their first day at university. Their initial hostility gives way to an unlikely and powerful friendship. The narrative explores their journey together, with Elphaba learning to trust Glinda’s intentions—often torn between her genuine kindness and a tendency toward self-interest and mockery.
A Friendship That Defies Expectations
The two women’s bond leads them to cross paths with the Wizard (Simeon Truby), the enigmatic figure ruling the Emerald City. However, the Wizard is far from what he seems, slowly bringing the darker traits of humanity—power, prejudice, and superiority—into the magical land of Oz.
Elphaba, horrified by his plans and their implications, fights to protect her world from his influence. Meanwhile, Glinda finds herself caught between her ambition and the unsettling consequences of ignoring her instincts.
Wicked Flips Everything You Thought You Knew
Growing up, we all thought Elphaba was the Wicked Witch of the West. That’s just how it was. But this story reveals a heartbreaking truth: she wasn’t wicked at all. Glinda, the sparkling, beloved heroine, also isn’t entirely what she seems.
Yes, it’s fiction—but some stories feel sacred when carried from childhood. For years, we believed the Wicked Witch was wicked simply because she was green, and Glinda was good because she glittered. Yet Wicked peels back the layers, showing Elphaba as kind-hearted and misunderstood, and Glinda as ambitious, driven by a desire for admiration.
A Spectacle Like No Other
The production is truly breathtaking. The staging and special effects are mesmerising, and the cast deliver performances that are nothing short of astounding. Carl Man’s Fiyero is charming and charismatic, while Sarah O’Connor’s Glinda and Laura Pick’s Elphaba are spellbinding. Their voices are nothing short of exquisite, bringing depth and emotion to these iconic roles. Defying Gravity brought the house down.
Whether or not you’re familiar with The Wizard of Oz, you’ll fall in love with Wicked. For those who know the original story, prepare to leave the theatre with a newfound appreciation for this complex and compelling reimagining.
Where Can You See Wicked
Wicked is playing at the Palace Theatre until 12th January 2025.
I was gifted the tickets for review purposes, but my opinion and love for a show so spectacular that I could watch it all again today is real.
Click here for more show reviews or here to find out where to park near the Palace Theatre.
