Reviewed by Katy Hart
Bristol is once again an Emerald City as Wicked returns to the Bristol Hippodrome. Last evening did not disappoint, the stage literally sparkled with emeralds and talent as the cast brought this award-winning musical to the stage to a packed out and excited audience. The performance was directed by Tony Award winner Joe Mantello.
Wicked is based on the novel by Gregory Maguire and adapted for stage by Winnie Holzman. It is inspired by the stories and characters originally created by L. Frank Baum in the Wonderful Wizard of Oz and is described by Maguire as being “a re-imagining of the same world”. Elpheba, a young girl who grows up to be the Wicked Witch of the West is born green after her mother’s affair with a travelling salesman selling a bright green elixir. Her father, the Governor of Munchkinland, shuns her and favours her younger sister, Nessarose, who is physically disabled. When Nessarose is able to go to school, he sends Elpheba to look after her. It is here, at school, that she shares a room with the Glinda, who we know as the Good Witch. They are an unlikely couple, but despite their differences and prejudices of others, they form the most extraordinary friendship.
It has been seen by over 53 million people around the world and is one of the most celebrated and successful musicals of all time. It really is not difficult to see why it is so ‘popular’ as it is a truly spectacular show with around 350 unique costumes that are some of the most incredible creations seen on any stage and an equally incredible musical score by the talented Stephen Schwartz with iconic numbers such as ‘For Good’ and ‘Defying Gravity’.
Amy Ross (Elpheba) has the most incredible vocals and stage presence, her performance of ‘I’m Not That Girl’ was so beautifully moving. The blend of voices when Amy and Helen Woolf (Glinda) sing ‘For Good’ was literally spellbinding. Aaron Sidwell (Fiyero) and Iddon Jones (Boq) also gave outstanding performances last evening along with Emily Shaw playing Nessarose, Elpheba’s sister and Steven Pinder as the ‘Wonderful’ Wizard of Oz.
The set and scenery are absolutely amazing – touring musicals are often reduced in scale, but with Wicked, you’ll see everything that you would see in London. I feel that the Hippodrome as a venue, is much more intimate than the Apollo Victoria which is home to the West End show. A packed audience and a welcoming comfortable theatre, together with an outstanding cast, creative team and musicians really make this polished, professional production something I would thoroughly recommend to you. Many of the performances have limited availability so get in now to ensure you do not miss what is a truly fantastic show.
Rating: 5/5
Age guidance Ages 7+. Running time : 2 hours 45 minutes with one 20 minute interval.
Tickets cost from £22.50 to £89 (plus £4 transaction fee).
Wicked is at the Bristol Hippodrome from 31 January to 3 March 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/bristol or call the box office on 0844 871 3012.
Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, Bristol, BS1 4UZ | 0844 871 3012
