6805 replies to this topic

[KevinUK]

stevepearman, on 17 February 2013 - 03:32 PM, said:

Think Gina has great timing now as Glinda. Really lover her in that role. I also believe those who thought Rachel was the best ever Elphie are struggling to enjoy the show without her. The theatre has been very full most nights this past week.

I think Rachel was absolutely brilliant as Elphaba, I really do. And I believe that in long running shows, you must do everything you can to bring in stronger leads at cast change. Wicked has done reasonably well with this over the years, and I think Rachel was the best Elphaba since Kerry. I'm not entirely convinced with Louise, but Rachel was always going to be a hard act to follow.

[stevepearman]

Really the movie shouldn't have an influence on the stage show, but of course it did!

[Musicals1248]

I have to say I think the buzz amongst theatre fans for Wicked has gone down since Rachel left, however this really doesn't affect the show when considering the size of the theatre. I've always said the majority of the audience each night are there to see Wicked and not a particular performer. I wanted Les Mis (based on the show, not the hype of the film) or Matilda to win tonight, as I do think Wicked has had its fair share of awards!

Oh, and if anyone had to win best takeover for Valjean, I'd rather it have been Geronimo (just sayin.. )

[Tettekete]

I like Louise, but Rachel is still my favourite London Elphaba and I was worried that after cast change I wouldn't have the same enthusiasm for seeing the show again and again without her being there. However, I have a huge love for Gina's Glinda now, and I'm always happy to see Wicked for the show as a whole because I just love it. The music, the ensemble, the songs (no matter who's singing them). It'd only be a bonus if I get to see Hayley the next time I see the show!

[stevepearman]

Yes, that's my feeling too. But I saw Hayley and she sure is good! Current cast is excellent. I will be going again in the not too distant future.

[tommo2k]

I'm going tomorrow matinee and Lucy Van Gasse is scheduled to be on as Glinda. Is she any good? I have seen Gina a few times so not too worried to be missing her.

[John_Rebus]

I've seen Lucy twice and unfortunately didn't like her Glinda that much. Thought she was missing a bit of the comedic talent in the first act and that her singing was not as good as Gina's

[BGLowe]

I really enjoyed when I saw Lucy, but I haven't seen Gina so can't compare! (I also wasn't blown away by Hayley as some were so maybe I just have different taste!)

[tommo2k]

Ok thanks for the info. Will be nice to see someone new.

[tommo2k]

Well I saw the show today. Understudies on for Morrible and the Wizard, which also meant an understudy Dr Dilamond. As expected Lucy was Glinda. I'm afraid I'm not really a fan of Lucy's Glinda. She was too stern looking and her voice wasn't powerful enough. There were some notes that she hit that were great though and her second act was better than her first. Was my first time seeing Louise as Elphaba. I was impressed. Preferred her Glinda but she was very good. Her big belted bits aren't as good as the rest of her bits but still strong. After reading mostly bad things about Fiyero i was pleasantly surprised. Overall, felt the show seemed a bit tired. The audience (full ish house) were quiet and lots of "laughs" were met with silence. Surprised as it is half term so expected more buzz. If I go again, will wait until there is a new cast.