Wicked at the Wales Millennium Centre Review
Wicked
Millennium Centre, Cardiff
12 March to 26 April 2014
Reviewed by Lee-Anne McCarthy
I must confess I am a huggggggeeeeee Wicked fan, the soundtrack is permanently fixed in my car stereo and the lyrics, I do know most. When I was asked to review the touring stage show visiting the Millennium Centre in Cardiff I was honoured and excited. I have seen the show a number of times on the West End stage and I have to confess was a little apprehensive about how the tour would measure up aesthetically and musically. But I had absolutely nothing to worry about. I left the theatre the way I always do absolutely mesmerised.
The story of Wicked is an adaptation that looks into the lives of the good and bad witches of Oz before the story the Wizard of Oz. Almost a prequel if you like. It tells the audience the real story behind the wickedness and goodness of Oz that we all know so well. It also tells of the very real reality that wickedness and goodness may not always be as it’s seems and that both wickedness and goodness often has a foundation in circumstances beyond personal control.
In the spectacular Donald Gordon Theatre the show really entices you from the moment you walk into the centre. The amazing staging, the very famous dragon and mapped curtain of Oz immediately draws you into the story. For those who’ve never seen Wicked you find yourself spotting the place names from the Wizard of Oz you know all so well. For those, like myself, who are a veteran Wicked fan, it just reminds you of the spectacle that is to come and helps build the excitement.
The show begins by taking you back to the very beginning when the good and bad witch attend university together. This period depicts themes of bullying, scapegoating and mistreatment of others. It’s a scenario many can identify with and as such means it’s really touching. Garlinda the Good was played by Emily Tierney who played the ditzy blonde with humour and realism. In every way the mean girl, the one everyone what’s to be or at least be friends with. Tierney really enabled the audience to laugh out loud at certain points but cringe at the times of her meanness. Emily Tierney showed clearly throughout the journey Garlinda made from jumped up bully full of self-importance and judgement to the embracing, loving and sharing witch striving for goodness in a world of evils. Elphaba was played by Nikki Davis-Jones. Davies-Jones played a remarkable part she showed Elphaba’s strength in the face of bullies and in stark contrast at times true vulnerability to the taunting. She developed the character beautifully throughout. Together with Tierney Davis-Jones was a true delight to watch. She made Elphaba’s journey gripping, engaging and at times truly breath-taking. You saw her as the odd young girl wearing a facade of not caring turn into a young woman of conviction and goodness. The main cast were all outstanding. Fiyaro played by Liam Doyle showed a real understanding of his character development and not only did Elphaba fall in love with him so too did the audience.
The entire cast worked as a well-oiled machine. The ensemble were so very believable. The singing from the entire cast was nothing short of the best. It took all my might to stop myself from singing along. This show has the kind of music that really sticks with you and I’m likely to be singing the entire score for a very long time. The choreography really enhanced the story telling. The set and lighting was splendid and really whisked you away on the journey to the distant Land of Oz. The entire production really struck a cord and left you feeling uplifted and in awe of the world of Oz.
This is a show that works for adults and children alike. Although there may be some elements that may seem a little frightening to the very young child it is a show that I would highly recommend to families of all ages (age guidance is 7+ with no under 3s). The message is one that is of great value in today’s society to young and old. Evil and goodness aren’t always what they seem and change can come from anywhere and be the making of someone.
Wicked is an outstanding show that I could and would watch again and again. The cast, the music, the set, the entire production brings you cruelty, joy, love, sadness and change for good. This production of Wicked was in no way a let down from the West End production I have already enjoyed. I would recommend this show to all.
I give Wicked a show stopping 5 out of 5!
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £20 to £75 (plus £1.50 booking fee / £1 if booked online). The Wicked Experiece Package (3 course meal, premium seat and hospitality before and after the show) costs from £159 to £179.
For more information or to book tickets call the Ticket Office on 029 2063 6464 or visit www.wmc.org.uk.
