Wicked Review

The show that we saw featured Erin Mackey as Glinda the Good Witch and Dee Roscioli as Elphaba (better known as the Wicked Witch of the West).  The story recounts the lives of Glinda and Elphaba before Dorothy and Toto (and their house) landed in Oz.   However, the plot of the story is not nearly as important - or engaging - as the relationship between the two women and the uproarious music.  Erin Mackey gives a guileless, charming, and effervescent performance.  Her Glinda is hysterically vapid at times, but appealingly moving at others.  Her voice is bright, clear, and strong.  I can't imagine a better choice of actress for the part.

Dee Roscioli's character is the grounded and soulful counterpart to bubbly Glinda.  Her character, Elphaba, isn't as instantly likeable as Glinda; that makes Roscioli's performance all the more interesting.  She brings a humanity and surprising charm to the Wicked Witch that slowly grows on you scene by scene.

Overall, the production values were quite impressive.  The Oriental Theater stage was a little smaller than I expected, but it's a beautiful venue and the scenery, costumes, and effects were eye-popping.  The rest of the cast was adequately enjoyable, but the show belongs to the two lead actress-singers.  I highly recommend this family friendly show.