Reader Reviews
Wicked (Apollo Victoria Theatre, West End)
Back to Show Details| Score | Comment | Date |
 | i hadn't expected that we would see Wicked again but Louise Dearman's return to the show meant that another visit was essential. Most people who know Lou had always thought she would make a brilliant Elphaba because of her enviable vocal range and powerful belt and she fully lives up to expectations and is at least the equal of Idina Menzel. Hers is an intense wicked witch but of course it wouldn't be Lou without finding all the humour that exists in the role. In contrast Gina Beck has a lovely light soprano as Glinda but isn't naturally funny. Perhaps best of all the strengths of the show still hold up after so many viewings. - David Baxter | 16 Dec 12 |
| I've seen Wicked twice in three months and it was, excuse the pun, magical on both occasions. Rachel Tucker manages to have both a powerful stage presence which is also sympathetic as Elphaba whilst Louise Dearman matches her presence as Galinda/Glinda. May it fly high for a long time to come. - Rob | 28 Nov 11 |
| I saw Wicked last week and have to say what an utterly brilliant show it was. Go and see it! Rachel Tucker and Louise Dearman make the perfect team and are both so talented. They were just amazingly good. Unfortunately, we saw understudy Tommy Sherlock as Fiyero and he was very disappointing. Terrible acting and mediocre singing and dancing. He had about as much allure as a cabbage and had no chemistry with poor Rachel at all! Sort out your understudies Wicked - people are paying £65 a ticket and deserve better! If it wasn't for a second rate Fiyero, I would have given the show 5 stars, as everything else was just fab. - Susanne | 16 Sep 11 |
| Rachel Tucker and Louise Dearman - you were amazing! So talented, I'm well jel. x - BFG | 16 Sep 11 |
| How odd - nobody has bothered to review Wicked since our last visit in September. Anyway, a WoS outing was an ideal opportunity to see the show again and to renew acquaintance with Louise afterwards. At some point I am sure I will get bored with Wicked but yet again the quality of the story and the production drew me in. It is also to everyone's credit that there is no suggestion of complacency amongst the cast and this is still a Broadway standard production. The close proximity of the fourth row provided an opportunity to pick out some small details which might be missed further back. It's also good to see Zoe Rainey who we have seen graduate from small ensemble roles at the Donmar as a paricularly wicked Nessa Rose. Wicked is still one of the best shows in town and, if not the very best, it's easy to see why it wins every audience award it is eligible for. - David Baxter | 11 May 11 |
| My wife's birthday so another trip to see Wicked was inevitable. Last time we saw it I predicted that the current cast could be the best ever and I think they have lived up to that. Rachel Tucker has fully grown into the role of Elphaba, providing light and shade rather than the full-on impact of some of her predecessors, including (heresy I know) Idina Menzel. It's worth remembering that originally the bigger name actress was cast as Glinda until the unstoppable Menzel effect took over. Louise Dearman has restored the character to prominence without any attempt to upstage her off-stage friend Rachel. Louise's perfromance is rich with irrepressible humour but also awareness of the friendship with Elphaba she has lost. Louise's singing voice still has remarkable range, even though it is not displayed to full effect here (see her in concert to gauge the full extent of her talent). I had expected to be a bit bored with Wicked by now but this was probably my favourite performance of the five we've seen. - David Baxter | 04 Sep 10 |
| Have seen this 3 times. The first with Kerry Ellis, I gave it 5 stars. The second with Alexa Kheidhiem, 4 stars and this time with Ashleigh Gray. I'm sure she's a very nice person but why do the producers think I want to pay top whack to watch the lead who can't really sing, it's like a shout with very little natural vibrato. She alone managed to turn it into a "middle class" toff story with the public school accent etc. This really does need the American accent to suceed. Every one was brilliant. It needed a cast change so I'll give it another go after checking Ashliegh Gray isn't the understudy. - Dave Woolrich | 27 May 10 |
| An extensive cast change was the motivation for a return trip to Wicked. Lewis Bradley is aptly cast as the shallow, dim Fiyero but actually sings well aprt from one horrible bum note. Clive Carter is probably the best singer to play the Wizard and Cassandra Compton must be the prettiest Nessa Rose. Rachel Tucker was clearly the most professional of the Nancy contestants and has earned her chance of a leading role. At first I had my doubts; her singing voice is excellent but her Elphaba was almost devoid of personality, but from Defying Gravity onwards something clicked. Her rock belt rivals Kerry Ellis and she also got under the (green) skin of the character. This was only her fourth day in the role but Rachel could develop into a brilliant Elphaba. However, the main reason for buying tickets is that, at long last LOUISE DEARMAN IS A WEST END STAR.We have followed this brilliant girl's career for years and wondered when a producer would see the talent we have always believed in and Louise truly lives up to expectations. She has a beautiful singing voice with enviable range and versatility but it is her natural sense of comedy that makes her such a superb Glinda. She correctly plays her as a spoilt teenager (Popular could now belong in Legally Blonde) but the transition to a more mature, thoughtful Glinda is brilliantly conveyed and there is a genuine chemistry between her and Rachel, befitting off-stage friends. The show itself may be the most poular in London although it is not in the same league as Les Mis, Phantom or the suprisingly short-lived Hairspray, to name but three, but, with Lee Mead still to come, Wicked might have its' best cast yet and in Louise Dearman - a star is born. - David Baxter | 02 Apr 10 |
| Brilliant show..The Alexia Khadime that I saw was terrific .. as was Diane Pilkington. Don't know what show correspondent "cassox" saw but it seems to have been something else entirely. However if his/her hearing is as poor as his spelling then maybe it is a hearing aid he needs to appreciate just how good the show actually is! - finnbarr | 26 Oct 09 |
| Still awfull. there is nothing to commend this show other than its a newly composed musical....... but unfortunatly Schwartz is a terrible composer... granted that 'popular' is a good yarn and 'Defying Gravity' a great power ballad.. or sorts....... but the wholething looks cheep, tacky and is a dreadfull travesty of musical theatre... and what is more it is a rape-ing of a mockery of a tarvesty of the book....... awfull.. i know you wont listen.... - cassox | 08 Oct 09 |
| I took a chance and went to see this sparkling show and was pleasently supriced. I think Alexia and Dianne was absolutely brilliant. A very funny and entertaining piece of work. - Risto Pohjola,Finland | 27 Jul 09 |
| I never quite understood the hysteria surrounding Wicked and especially Idena Menzel, but a return visit after 2 and a half years gave me some idea what all the fuss was about. Alexia Khadime acts the part of Ephaba really well but doesn't have any of Menzel's amazing stage presence or belting rock voice. She wasn't helped by being undermiked, which also hampered Dianne Pilkington as Glinda. What I had also forgotten is how entertaining Wicked is throughout with a memorable score and an outstanding book which is both funny and clever and manages to cover some of the same territory on prejudice as Hairspray. - David Baxter | 19 Jun 09 |
| The best musical I've ever seen. It's funny; its' bittersweet; it's mesmerising. See it! - David Dawson | 06 Apr 09 |
| I saw this show twice on wednesday 25th March. Sarah Earnshaw was on as Glinda both times and she's incredible. Sucha beautiful voice and hilarious to watch, i couldnt take my eyes off her. Kerry Ellis is really evolving in the way she plays elphaba and i have noticed a change in the way she does the role in the 9 times i've seen her since june 2007. Nadine Cox was Madame Morrible for the matinee and she was a very jovial but nasty madame morrible. Very diffeent to harriet thorpe who played the role in the evening but they are both amazing in the role. Desmond Barrit as the wizard was outstanding i think he's very good and will be sad to see him go in may. Jeremy Legat and Caroline Keiff have such great chemistry as Boq and Nessarose, i'll be sad to see them leave too. all the cast were fab and i'm so disappointed that the next time i see them will be at cast change, i want them to stay forever lol. Oliver Tompsett was also incredible as Fiyero and I'm glad he's staying - Kirsty | 30 Mar 09 |
| This is my second time of seeing Wicked.This time I had up close tickets, too close in fact! Stalls row J39. Far left of stage but still good for 32 notes.Slightly restricted view. I was very disappointed in Ashleigh Gray's performance as Elphba. No comparison to Kerry Ellis. Don't get me wrong, her acting is first class as well as her diction and timing. There are no tuning issues either, it's just I didn't like her interpretation of the songs. No where near enough vibrato and too much "jerkiness" almost yodeling type phrasing. Just didn't do it for me at all. The rest including Dianne who has it all, was great, as before. It just shows how one person can either make or break a musical. It's still a fabulous show but next time I'd wait to see Kerry. - Dave Woolrich. | 20 Mar 09 |
| Wicked is still exciting and colourful as the day it opened 5 STARS!!! I have seen the London production of Wicked - A New Musical many times and I am still taken back by the sheer scale of the production. You can see your money on stage in the set, costumes, lighting and the world-class performances from this amazing cast. Kerry Ellis really shines through as the green-skined misunderstood witch Elphaba. She took over Idina Menzel, who won a Tony Award for her performance on Broadway, and she continues to improve her acting and singing. Her counter-part Dianne Pilkington who plays the popular good witch Glinda also brings her talents to the surface for all to see. Her acting and singing match perfectly for the role. She goes from having the audience in fits of laughter to crying your eyes out. Harriet Thorpe also stands out playing the evil Madame Morrible where she suits the role 100%. Her acting and comic timing make the role stand out. She leaves you wanting alot more. The rest of the cast including Oliver Thompsett and Desmond Barrit round off the perfect cast for the perfect evening. A truely unmissable show for anyone theatre goer. It is well worth the money for a ticket even in today's climate. I hope this show run's for many more years to give many more the chance to be taken back to the land of Oz. See it Now!!! - Mark Weetman | 10 Mar 09 |
| THE BEST SHOW EVER! This is truly magical and spellbinding. There are parts of this that made me cry it is truly amazing. I have now seen it 4 times and am going twice more in April and March. It is fabulous and this musical has DEFINITLEY changed my life :D - Emily | 01 Feb 09 |
| Wow, wow, wow. I saw this on Wed 28th Jan 09, stalls seat 9 row U 19.30hrs. What a fabulous theatre and being 6ft3" plenty of room. This was my 4th show in the week and the one I was least looking forward to, BUT how wrong I was. I always buy the OCR first so knew the score. This is BIG, loud and awesome. The voices, staging, acting are all first class. I can not say one negative thing. It has stayed with me and am still playing the soundtrack, which I don't normally do following seeing the production. One comment only, the theatre was cold! Bravo to you all if any of the cast read this. I will be back! - Dave Woolrich | 30 Jan 09 |
| Disappointing and hackneyed. Left at intermission, was a total waste of money. There were many leaving at the same time... Music was boring, storyline was sexist, women were either dumb or sleazy. Too many holes in the story....why were they friends? OH.... because Glinda would teach her to be popular? Give me a break! - Angel | 28 Dec 08 |
| Well i saw Wicked again today at the matinee. And i was delighted to find Sarah Earnshaw was on as Glinda. she was hilarious the whole way thru the show, everyone was in stitches.especially in Popular. I can't describe it, but try n see her for yourself. And of course Kerry Ellis is back. She was phenomenal in Defying gravity and no good deed. she seems to be stuck between accents though as sumtimes when delivering her dialogue she was english and american lol. I love her and Alexia equally, they both bring sumthing different to the role. it was funny in Wonderful when kerry was supposed to be angry but desmond barrit was on top form as the wizard and he had kerry stifling giggles.Oliver Tompsett seems to be glad to have Kerry back and it showed in their performance, they were really good together. Tim Walton was on today as Dr Dillamond and he put in a good performance but it wasnt the best i've ever seen. Harriet Thorpe was brilliant as Madame Morrible and jeremy legat as boq was also excellent. i can't forget his voice in a hurry. Caroline Keiff was outstanding as nessarose, she was so angry and powerful in the 2nd act. All in all the cast were awesome, despite the fact a lot of them seem to have disappeared today. But at least the swings got a good go at Wicked and they worked well together. i am going back in january and i know i will not be disappointed! - Kirsty | 17 Dec 08 |
| Well I saw this show on saturday 25th for my 5th time and i still love it. Alexia and Oli were truly outstanding in their roles and their chemistry together was amazing. Desmond Barrit is brilliant as the Wizard and Harriet Thorpe was deliciously evil as Morrible. Caroline Keiff and Jeremy Legat were very sweet in their roles as Nessarose and Boq and Andy Mace put in a good performance as Doctor Dillamond.However i could only give 4 stars this time because I was very disappointed in Dianne Pilkington as Glinda. I have seen her 3 times previously and thought she was hilarious but I was appaled by her performance this time round. She rushed through her songs and dialogue as quickly as she could, i couldnt hear half of what she said and i was on the front row of the stalls! And she just wasnt funny at all. i think she may be getting tired of playing glinda and will be ready to move on in May. Her standby Sarah Earnshaw is well worth going to see though if u can catch her. I am going back in december tho and i hope i can be singing dianne's praises again x x - Kirsty | 29 Oct 08 |
| omg alexia was fantastic as normal wen i saw this on wednesday afternoon. her voice is so youthful and fresh and she brings so much energy to the part. sarah earnshaw was on as glinda and i can't understand why she's not the principal, she is outstanding, she duznt go over the top and really plays the jokes well. liam tamne is a good fiyero and can hit the notes but i did miss oliver tompsett's riffs. all the cast were fantastic and i love this show so much. am seeing it for a 5th time in december and will be going at least twice next year. don't miss wicked, its phenomenal! - Kirsty | 03 Oct 08 |
| best show that i have ever saw in my life alexia khadime is an amaying singer and i was mesmerised throughout the entire show . my first ever trip to london as i am from scotland and it was the best trip i have eveer been :) every one should go see it COMETO SCOTLAND WICKED :o !!!! - claire dalgleish | 06 Sep 08 |
| RE:Graham's post (on 30 Jul 08), you need to respect and learn to accept other people's view points. Those that gave the production a 1 star have valid reasons and the readers can decide for themselves what they want to believe and whether or not they want to go and see the musical. - Chris | 05 Aug 08 |
| I really cannot believe that readers who give this production 1 star are completely intolerant of those that give 4 or 5 stars. Everybodies likes are different and although this should be encouraged (to express ones feelings about something) it shouldn't be at the cost of fellow theatre goers by making childish,bitter and twisted remarks because they think that they are right and everyone else is wrong. I think this production is wonderful and i've seen it 3 times with different people who also thought the same as me. I remember seeing chitty chitty bang bang with Micheal Ball and thought that was complete tosh, but i certainly wouldn't complain about those that liked it! - Graham | 30 Jul 08 |
| Sadly I agree with some of the negative reviews on here, I'm a fan of Wicked but it has run its course in London. Anyone who saw the amazing first cast with Idina Menzel and Adam Garcia cannot fail to be disappointed by the current cast. Kerry Ellis was a decent replacement but she never really reached the greatness of her American counterpart. To my mind, the show was over when Garcia and the rest of the original cast left. I don't know what they're thinking in London but the Glinda's are terrible and they seem to think they can get away with casting Elphaba with an ok voice - you can't!!! I'd rather see this close then turn into a panto! - HT | 06 Jul 08 |
| I'm sad to say Wicked is losing it, from the stunning show that took the West End by storm to the shabby, second rate performances of the 'best' of what London has to offer. Alexia Khadime is good in the role, but she's not amazing, probably about as good as Cassidy Jansen, Elphaba needs to be amazing, and I'm sad to say when the American left this show started a steady slide down hill which I have witnessed with sadness. Come on producers, get the cast out and get in some proper talent, this show will not run on spectacle alone, look at the US, they cast power house voices and stars like George Hearn! - Jack | 06 Jul 08 |
| A good musical. The 2 leading performances were very good. The references to 'Wizard of Oz' were hugely enjoyable. However after the interval the show is not that interesting and the resolution is a bit boring and done before. Also the music score is nothing spectacular. - Manolis D. | 05 Jul 08 |
| saw the matinee and it was fab. Alexia khadime is a perfectly cast elphaba. shes fiesty and innocent and is a good match for her co star Dianne Pilkington. Everyone was fab and i loved the chemistry between Oliver tompsett and Alexia. This show is not to be missed! - Kirsty | 21 Jun 08 |
| Wow. Fabulous music, with a very good cast. Kerry Ellis stands out with that fantastic smooth yet very powerful voice, leaving Di's vocal sounding a little inadequate (although acting-wise she is very good). RH had it right when she/he commented that this will serve both the jolly-day-out-at-the-theatre-seeker and those looking for a little more depth. AW - AW | 01 Jun 08 |
| was determined to catch this show again prior to the departure of kerry ellis to broadway, ireally feel it will be lacking something without her. it was a stunning show, not the easiest story to follow on stage but with this viewing i have benefitted from reading the novel beforehand. all the cast put in strong performances but as indicated previously i think kerry ellis is the un-disputed star of the show. there is definitely something in this show to appeal to everyone, although a musical with meaning and depth it is also a jolley day out at the theatre . - rh | 27 May 08 |
| fANTSTIC ON THE EYE BUT DULL DULL DULL SHOULD HAVE LEFT AFTER THE BIG NUMBER AT THE END OF THE FIRST ACT - Richard Howard | 25 Jan 08 |
| I returned to OZ last night and what a dissapointment. I previously saw this musical with Idina Menzel, Helen Dallimore and Adam Garcia in the leads but the actors who have replaced them are not a patch on their stage craft. The sound system is awful which makes Dianne Pilkinton's silly version of Glinda inaudible. The producers should really take a look at her performance and compare her with the excellent Helen Dallimore where you could hear every word and she was funny. Maybe acting lessons for Dianne who plays the role like a over the top dizzy blonde with a accent so you can not understand a word she says. As for the actor who plays Flyero he is not a patch on Adam Garcia. Thankfully I did not pay full price for a ticket but I can definately say if you are not a fan do not waste you money on this as show. I think this musical has run its course in London as the theatre was half empty. - Ivor | 15 Jan 08 |
| A great score, particular highlights for me were "Popular" and "Defying Gravity", and the design of the show means it looks fantastic. I was rather underwhelmed by some of the performances though. Can't understand everyone raving about Kerry Ellis. Yes, she has a fantastic voice, but little or no stage presence. Her acting in fact is very weak, and means that you don't actually care very much about Elphaba. In fact at first we assumed it was the understudy! Dianne Pilkington is better, but hampered by playing Glinda as English when she's clearly the bratty, American cheerleader type! In fact we found the artistic decisions about who used what accent as baffling and ultimately distracting. The Wizard sings and speaks in an American accent, Glinda sings and speaks in an English one, and Elphaba speaks in English and sings in American, apart from when she's duetting with Glinda when she sings in English, so their vowel sounds match!! Oliver Thompsett was a rather bland Fiyero although his thighs were very impressive in his tight white jodhpurs. But Susie Blake was great. So a bit of a mixed bag. Enjoy the music and the spectacle, but there isn't a huge amount of substance beneath it all. - Quentin | 04 Jan 08 |
| 2nd time i have seen wicked fist time with idina menzel and helen dallimore well this latest offering was just as good....great perfomances from both leading ladies...i will be back again and again..this shows feel good factor is awsome,and another standing ovation for the cast....could not be better..thanks - mark willoughby | 15 Nov 07 |
| 2nd time i have seen wicked fist time with idina menzel and helen dallimore well this latest offering was just as good....great perfomances from both leading ladies...i will be back again and again..this shows feel good factor is awsome,and another standing ovation for the cast....could not be better..thanks - mark willoughby | 15 Nov 07 |
| 2nd time i have seen wicked fist time with idina menzel and helen dallimore well this latest offering was just as good....great perfomances from both leading ladies...i will be back again and again..this shows feel good factor is awsome,and another standing ovation for the cast....could not be better..thanks - mark willoughby | 15 Nov 07 |
| 2nd time i have seen wicked fist time with idina menzel and helen dallimore well this latest offering was just as good....great perfomances from both leading ladies...i will be back again and again..this shows feel good factor is awsome,and another standing ovation for the cast....could not be better..thanks - mark willoughby | 15 Nov 07 |
| it's weird because everybody say that it's the ost amazing show in the west end...well, i don't think so. I think the set design is brilliant, that defying gravity is one of the most powerful thing i've seen on stage but finally, the rest of the show looks and sounds like a Disney show...very childish. The sound is really bad but you live something special at the same time...well, just go and see it ( in the circle for a good view). Kerry ellis is good! - morgan | 24 Oct 07 |
| When I first saw Wicked advertised in New York I knew it was sometihng special. I saw it in London and was completely blown away by the amazing storyline, suberb songs and amazing scenery and effects. Kerry Ellis has an incredible voice and and Diane Pilkinton is a wonderful Glinda. Together they lead an incredibly talented cast and ensemble. Wicked has certainly worked it's magic over London. This show is one you'll remember forever. - Naomi | 23 Oct 07 |
| I will admit to getting older and a touch hard to please and that goes for the 3 friends who accompanied me last Saturday evening (6 Nov). The expensive front dress circle seats give you the feeling that you are watching a scene in the street below from a third floor window. The sound system or the actors diction, especially the understudy playing Glinda, made it almsot impossible to follow the plot (if there was one; the music was loud and pretty repetitive with no memorable melodies and some of the singing was clearly off key. The staging was spectacular but that was it. To sum up it was spectacularly boring and if you are over 60 don't waste your money on this trite american import. - Billytwotimes | 08 Oct 07 |
| Saw this show on 15th August '07, and I was completely blown away, easily the best show to hit London for years. I know everyone keeps saying this, but Kerry Ellis was INCREDIBLE as Elphaba, I have yet to hear a more powerful voice, it literally filled the theatre. Diane Pilkington and Oliver Tompsett were also fantastic in the other two leads. As for the sets and costumes, they have to be seen to be believed, so spectacular, particularly the astounding Act 1 finale, 'Defying Gravity'. If you intend to see any show, make sure it's this one; it truly is 'Wicked'! - Greg | 27 Aug 07 |
| I saw this show again last night and it was trully brilliant. Sarah Earnshaw, standby for glinda was on for her first day and she was amazing, you would have never have known that she had played the role once before!! Her singing and acting skills are superb, she had the comedy in the first act and the poignancy in the second. Kerry Ellis was as usual world class, she continues to get better and there are literally no words to describe her singing ability. It is of the blow you away brilliant kind, she does this and still manages to stay in character her portrayal is not overly showy or riffy but it is deeply moving and affecting. Her acting continues to improve and the chemistry between the leads was amazing. The rest of the cast, somewhat overlooked unfairly because of the amazingness of Kerry and Sarah were also excellent. This show really does have it all, great sets and costumes a good plot and truly unforgettable acting, dancing and singing by the entire company. A must see. - Linsey | 26 Aug 07 |
| This is the best West End Show I have ever seen and I just want to keep going back again and again. Kerry Ellis (Elphaba) is a fantastic actress with a phenomenal voice, and the rest of the cast are also outstanding. Add to that the heart-tugging but funny songs and storyline and some amazing lighting and special effects, and this is the best show around. - Lizzie | 12 Aug 07 |
| This show is absolutely wonderful and Kerry Ellis is fantastic with a completely phenomenal voice. Relationships between the cast are clearly reflected on stage and meeting everyone after the show just proved to me what lovely and down to earth people they are. This show leaves you smiling for days afterwards...completely brilliant. - Emma | 11 Aug 07 |
| I was there in May and loved it. When I returned to NYC I had to buy every movie Adam Garcia has ever made! The girls were greate too. I'd not been in the VA since Starlight Express in 1993. An amazing theater an amazing theatrical experience! btw, I live in NYC and have passed on seeing this show for more than 3 years. London is the best! - GerardNYC | 28 Jul 07 |
| There is nothing negative i can say about the show at all! It's witty, funny, emotional (the number of times I cried) and when you leave the theatre you just want to turn right around and see it again! Kerry Ellis is AMAZING, her voice fills the theatre with her beautiful, clear tone. James Gillan, he was so hilarious, I just wanted to see more and more of him in fact, i think the show should be re-written to give him a bigger part. All in all, a must see one of the BEST SHOWS YOU WILL EVER SEE... EVER! - Katherine | 11 Jul 07 |
| it desrves all 5 stars of this review, i went to see it yesterday and paid a fortune for my seat, however it was fantastic ! Kerry Ellis has a superb voice that made every hair stand on end and Helen Dallimore was excellent as Galinda! And Adam Garcia amazed me with his dancing and singing skills ! Well Done to the whole cast! I cannot wait to see it again it was truly ....... WICKED ! - lily | 05 Jul 07 |
| Went to see this yesterday as well! I agree mostly with the previous reviewer however I have to say that Kerry is a better actress and singer than J although CJ was amazing yesterday. Also I have to disagree about Oliver Tompsett as Fiyero. He was absoltely amazing and As Long As Your Mine was the best number of the night. I'd also have to agree about Madam Morrible. I was extremely happy to see the singing back in the part after the wonderful but shouting Miriam. Role on wicked! Going to miss the wonderful Helen Dallimore when she leaves. Apart from one or two duff notes in No One Mourns the Wicked as usual last night she was amazing! A fantastic show! Just as good second time as first! - JM | 01 Jul 07 |
| Saw Wicked yesterday from the day seats again, they really are the best value seats in London, I wouldn't want to see it from anywhere but the front row now. Felt really sorry for the girl sat directly behind me when I told her we had paid £35 less than her for a slightly better seat. I was overjoyed when I found out we were seeing understudy (soon to be standby Elphaba) Cassidy Janson who was outstanding. I much preferred her interpretation to Kerry Ellis's. Her performance is based a lot on Idina Menzel's, at times you could close your eyes and think you're listening to Idina, but she still manages to make it her own in many ways. As Long As You're Mine and For Good outshone Idina's versions, and I'm a huge fan of Idina so I wouldn't say that lightly. Of the three I have seen, Kerry by far has the best voice, technically, but Idina and Cassidy portrayed the role much more appropriately in my opinion. I would now always try to go when Cassidy is scheduled to be on, Wicked lost its shine for me with Kerry, even though she is very good and easily has one of the best voices of all those who have played the role, something was missing, Cassidy Janson, for me, has brought this back. Oliver Tomsett was hugely disappointing as Fiyero. I had high hopes for him after hearing clips of him on YouTube and vocally he delivers with a sublime voice - As Long As You're Mine, again superb. The let down is his acting and dancing (both very wooden) and his size. He looks huge on stage and about 15 years older than the rest of the cast. His head shot must be at least 10 years old! Susie Blake is amazing in pretty much every way as Madame Morrible, it was wonderful to hear her parts sung after the hugely disappointing portrayal from Miriam Margolyes (of whom I am a fan in other things) who shouted her way through the whole thing. I'm having renewed faith in soap actors! We had u/s Nessa, Caroline Keiff who unfortunately looked like an understudy. She was passable in the role but never managed to look natural, pulling some of the strangest facial expressions I've even seen! Helen Dallimore improves every time I see her starting as a mediocre G(a)linda to a really great one - she is hilarious! The rest of the cast were very good - James Gillin continues to shine as Boq and we saw a huge improvement in Nigel Planer as the Wizard. This show has definitely renewed my faith in the London production and I can't wait to see it again! - LM | 01 Jul 07 |
| omg this is the best show that i have seen in my life! i saw it 30th may, kerry was absolutely sensational!! she is going to be such a big star! helen plays such a great part and credit to her. oliver was understudying for adam that night, but he is just as good if not better! katie plays a brilliant part as nessa! i loved the show and cant wait to see it again!! the company put so much effort into the show and the costumes and dances are amazing! i met the cast afterwards, kerry and helen are complete stars and without a doubt have so much talent!! kerry ellis, will be such a big star shortly, and she deserves it!! just keep an eye on her! - aimee | 25 Jun 07 |
| Superb! Superb! Superb! I was aching to go and see this for ages and Im really glad I went to see it last night! It was just fantastic! The staging, the set, costumes, acting, dancing, the singing was fabulous! Helen Dallimore was adorable as Glinda and as for Kerry Ellis, she is gonna be a huge musical superstar along with Elaine Paige and Liza Minneli! She was brilliant as Meat in We Will Rock You and she shone tremendously in the show last night! The storyline between Glinda and Elphaba is so touching and sweet, I cant wait to read the book! If you want to see a musical that will not only move you but make you smile, GO AND SEE THIS! MOST RECOMMENDED!!! - Allie | 23 Jun 07 |
| wicked is absolutly fab the whole cast pored their heart & soul into the act & i thought elphaba's defying gravity's scene was breath taking.. - jade.. | 17 Jun 07 |
| Who cares about the accents? Its not an American show..thats like saying Les Mis is an English show. Which by the way they do in American accents on Broadway, please get a life. This show is fab!!!!! - Matt | 16 Jun 07 |
| Wicked is amazing! The whole cast is amazingly talented!! - Jenny | 16 Jun 07 |
| An absolutely AMAZING show. Anyone who hates it probably doesn't understand the real story of the show. Not only does it have a fantastic variety of songs, it has an amazing set and the cast are brilliant. Kerry Ellis is one of the most talented people I've ever seen and Helen Dallimore is out of this world. Come see this show...Its amazing! Oh and if don't want to see understudies I recommend you to check the website because it tells you all the cast holidays. Would be the simpler thing to do..then moan. If you get up early enough front row seats for £25 get released at 10am each day. They are WELL worth buying...the most amazing view ever. - Scarlet | 16 Jun 07 |
| Saw this yesterday. I was actually quite excited as I'd heard the album about a year ago and thought it sounded like a good show. I wouldnt say I was one of the massive fans though!! Paid £40 to sit at the back of the grand circle. I wouldnt say these were great seats, you're too far away from the stage! I felt really sorry for the people right at the back! Anyway, there were 3 understudies on (Dr Dillamond, Nessa and I think the Midwife) which i guess is fair enough for a matinee but Im not used to having 3 people off for a performance. The one thing that immediately struck me was the accents! Why are they doing a blatent american show in english accents?! It just completely jarred with the singing and dialoge and I felt the actors were contantly struggling against it. Highly silly if you ask me! There are plenty of american musicals in the west end, I dont see why they thought this one should get rid of the accents. Kerry Ellis is a very good performer, I felt like she put her all into the part and the character grew. And, to be fair, the understudies were very good. Dr Dillamond and Nessa were two of the best characters onstage (both done by understudies). The sound was very annoying though and often far too quiet to bring the people at the back into the action! Also it's a very 'knowing' show. The references to the Wizard of Oz were very blatent, the actors may as well have winked at the audience when they said it and a lot of good moments were ruined by these knowing bits. I enjoyed it to a certain extent but certainly wouldnt see it again and certainly dont understand the hype!!! - KM | 10 Jun 07 |
| I love this show. saw it yesterday at the matinee (9th June) Kerry Ellis was amazing and i got chill during defying gravity. And Oliver Tompsett as Fiyero was awesome. Helen Dallimore was a bit high pitched but she acts well enough. Cant wait to see this show again!! - Kirsty | 10 Jun 07 |
| Okay it's not without flaws but Kerry Ellis is a fabulous singer and though I thought her acting was a bit under-par, her singing was the blow-you-away brilliant kind. Helen Dallimore not only sang brilliantly but acted her socks off, her facial expressions are worth the ticket price alone. The rest of the cast performed well as well. It's a very enjoyable way to spend an afternoon/evening, and the experience will stay with me for a long time. The standing ovation at the end the show was entirely deserved. - Naomi | 04 Jun 07 |
| Saw wicked on Thursday. Easily the most energetic, exciteing show that I have ever seen in my life, and i've seen most of the major shows in London. Kerry Ellis was phenomenal, and gave absolutely the greatest performance i have ever seen or heard, at one point her voice left me stunned to the point that i couldn't move, and I had goosebumps throughout the show. It was also clear how good the chemistry was between the cast members, and that they all really enjoyed the show. Everyone put full energy into the performance. This show was one of the best experiences i have had, and was well worth the £60, and was easily the best show i have ever seen. P.S, this show is far from starting to die. Judgeing from thursday night's performance, this show is as fresh as ever! - Joe | 07 May 07 |
| lol soz put four stars accidentaly - Joe | 07 May 07 |
| Now here is the truth about Wicked. Kerry Ellis makes a fabulous lead- she truly is amazing. The guy who playes Fiero was also lovely, and he had real soul. The other characters were forgettable; vocally flawless- but forgettable nonetheless. This is a show of 'spectacle'. It has big scores, elaborate set, costumes, spectacular effects, etc. It's one to make your jaw drop and gives you 'chills up the spine' of the physical sort with it's gradeur and dramatic music. Chills of the more emotional sort are thinner on the ground, however. The whole thing is so 'sparkly' I personally didn't 'connect' with any of the characters. It was a brillliant but very self-conscious performance; I never forgot that who I was watching were actors. This could have been due to a number of things, but I think it was the emphasis of spectacle over content, the heavily merchandised nature of the whole experience, and the screaming fans. They really were annoying. It was obvious that many were not regular theatre-goers and didn't know theatre ettiquette (when to clap, when to shut up, when not to have a whispered conversation, and when NOT to whistle!!) They treated it like a pop concert rather than a piece of theatre. I don't want to sound snobble, but for me the theatre is an experience. For a few hours you live and breathe what happens on the stage, you become involved, and that it why it is called Art. Here, we were not 'audience', but 'customers'. We were 'buying' a bit of Wicked. The atmosphere was fake. Having said that, it's no reflection on the show itself. The fact remains that the performers are truly fantastic, and three hours or so of entertainment were surely had. Go- but don't expect a 'deep' experience! - Cate Anne | 03 May 07 |
| This really is the worst show I have seen in a very long time, most of the company work hard but nobody stands out as anything other than average. Very disappointed, I cannot believe it has the following it has altough most of the people 'screaming' around me were aged about 16, not a good house either, the show is obviously dying off a little. 1 point for the set. - ps | 30 Apr 07 |
| Saw this show for the 5th time on monday. It isn't the most inventive musical but my is it a brilliant night out! So much fun, enthusiasm and belting that will blow your ears out! Kerry Ellis is an amazing Elphaba, her voice is flawless! A brillaint replacement for Menzel. Annalene was on for Glinda and why she isn't full tim Glinda I don't know. She was awsome. Her singing was brilliant and her acting flawless. Amazin women! Overal this show keeps getting better and better, it may not boast a big American name but with our own home grown talent the show is in excellent hands and will just continue to get better and better! - Marcus | 19 Apr 07 |
| I've seen this in the past and enjoyed it enough. However I saw it on sat 17th March. Wicked has now lost its magic, novelty and soul. It was the flattest performance I have ever seen in the West End. I hate to say it, but i think maybe the show is suffering from the absence of Idina Menzel. There seems to be no spark anymore and performances have definately dropped down a gear. It has lost it's pace, infuriatingly suffering from the longest pauses between dialogue. I was actually bored for the first time with this show. 8 Months into the run and the show is slack technically, with awful sound quality and late lighting cues. At one point Kerry Ellis' spot finally came on half way through a song. Just small things that add to the overall feeling of tiredness. During the interval the steps of the Apollo Victoria were peppered with people making similar comments to these, which was both reassuring and disheartening. I do like this show, but the current London production isn't doing it justice. Maybe worth seeing again after July with a new cast. - Mitch | 18 Mar 07 |
| Saw it again last Monday for the second time; having seen it on Kerry Ellis' first night, it was obvious last week how the chemistry between the two leads has developed. Saw Andy (?) as the understudy for the Wizard and thought he gave a far better performance than Nigel Planer. - Rich | 27 Feb 07 |
| saw matinee perf on sat 13th jan booked tix 2 days before and asked if kerry ellis was playing was assured yes ! . so imagine when i turn up after spending £230 on tix . and boq,wizard, and elphaba all understudy`s . not stand in but understudy for elphaba ! well what can i say the wizard was better than nigel ! and think it was Cassidy ? playing elphy my god ! she was excellant tiny with a big voice and put %110 in to the part i came way feeling satisfied . she deserved her standing ovation - 194.176.105.41) | 15 Jan 07 |
| Save yourself the expense of seeing the musical - read Gregory Maguire's original book instead. It's every bit as charmless and overrated but cheaper than a ticket! - 81.79.255.60) | 12 Jan 07 |
| Oh dear me! Comment to the poor sad person who suggested miss Menzil was not singing but was infact miming.You haven't a clue what your talking about.I was sat in the stalls and it was all real. From a technical point of view what your suggesting means that the band must also have been faking it as it is virtually impossible to sync up an audio vocal track to a live band.Even with a piece that is straight forward. Sounds like you waste a lot of money going to see shows that don't live up to your standards.How very,very sad. Maybe I'm as sad for responding. Enjoyed the show, especially the all brilliant, live, miss Menzil . - 88.109.103.33) | 11 Jan 07 |
| Kerry Ellis rocked last night. i thought it was the best performance i've ever seen of wicked. the company have all grown in their roles - Dallimore and Garcia both excellent. but the addition of Kerry Ellis has brought something special to this show - 86.144.86.59) | 10 Jan 07 |
| A new witch flew into the Apollo Victoria Theatre last night and what a witch she is! It was always going to be hard to fill the shoes of Idina Menzel, but Miss Ellis does it with such gusto and style that you fall for the show all over again. A hint of things to come is given in the form of 'The Wizard and I', which is sung with such clarity and diction, that for the time every word of the song is heard. Then there is 'Defying Gravity', which as always dazzles and blows the roof off the theatre. However, the best is saved for 'No Good Deed' which Kerry embraces and makes her own. The rest of the cast seem much more settled in their roles since opening night. Helen delights us with 'Popular', and Adam Garcia is a little more convincing as the tight panted airhead. The show is not perfect, but which one is? However, it's in safe hands with Kerry Ellis who embraces Elphaba with panache. - 87.74.74.199) | 10 Jan 07 |
| This show was fantastic. Not sure what other people who only gave it 1 star watched as it certainly couldn't have been the same show. I think that the story is very well crafted around the Wizard of Oz and links very well, I never thought I would feel sorry for the 'Wicked Witch'. Maybe this is just a show for a younger under 40 audience? I can't believe that people would also accuse the actors of miming to the songs? Part of me thinks does it really matter, although I doubt that a Broadway actor would ever mime songs. I think the huge round of applause at the end showed how much everyone liked the show. - 194.176.105.38) | 05 Jan 07 |
| Saw the show on Monday,Kerry Ellis' first night and thought it was fantastic. Didn't know what to expect as we'd deliberately avoided all the hype in order to make up our own minds, and we were blown away from her very first song. Extremely impressed and can't wait to go back! - 194.176.105.38) | 04 Jan 07 |
| Saw the show on Dec 27 at 2:00. Had seen it in New Yok two weeks after it opened. I would like to ask the others who saw the show and who sat in the front stalls if they could tell that Ms Menzel was lip syncing through all of the songs? The only exception came when she was singing a duet and had to sing at the same time as the other person. I also saw Spamalot and it too was completely not live voices. - 207.200.116.9) | 03 Jan 07 |
| I don't think I saw the same show on Saturday as others have mentioned, it was my first and last time at Wicked. The atmosphere was 'hysterical' but spoilt the show for those who are not followers and I can honestly say I don't know what the hysteria was about, a lot of American schmaltzz and nothing less. Idina Menzel is a good singer but there was nothing else to her performance. Looks great but a very poor musical with a feeble story, I certainly won't be seeing it again. One for the Kiddies I think! - 212.241.226.130) | 02 Jan 07 |
| Oh my, where to start?! Idina's last night was phenomenal, the crowd was so supporting, huge laughs, and huge tears! Idina did so much more experimentation with her songs and it gave everyone goosebumps. Set was superb and looks even better a bit further away from the stage! I'm not really one to cry but Helen and Idina sang "For Good" with so much conviction and true emotion I couldnt help it. The most fantastic night of my life. So much more energy, I just hope they keep it up for the new year. The score is one of the best I have heard and what a brillant twist on a story we all know and love so well. Just magical. I really dont want Idina to go as she is truly spectacular, but I know Kerry Ellis can match her just as equally. :) AMAZING! - 80.3.128.8) | 01 Jan 07 |
| Absolutely Stunning! I thought this was an amazing spectacle! I only went to see it for the first time on the matinee today and this was Idina Menzel's second to last performance. I thought that she is truly one of the best west end musical actresses i have ever seen and to see her on one of her last performances was fantastic, although i will go again in the new year, no offense to Kerry but i do not think it will be the same at all. Idina makes the show what it is, but still, 5 STARS because of the amazing singing, the fantastic Set Design, and the great stage effects! well done WICKED, you get my vote for the best of the year! - 84.67.18.20) | 30 Dec 06 |
| OK, this show doesn't deserve all the hype that surrounded it, but it doesn't deserve the criticism either. I've seen the show twice now from the front row day seats (which have to be the biggest bargain in the West End right now) and I was impressed on both occasions. Wicked is a huge spectacle which should be appreciated for being just that. Idina Menzel is clearly a star and shone her way through both performances as exactly that - she carries the show with that overwhelming belting voice of hers, and I have to admit I would be less inclined to go again after she leaves tonight. Good entertainment but you can't take it too seriously - enjoy it for what it is and lighten up! - 84.70.110.104) | 30 Dec 06 |
| This really is the most overhyped rubbish I have ever sat through. The story (apparently there is one) has more holes in it than a doily and all the songs but one are totally forgetable. Idina Menzel shrieks her way through her performance although at times it was not possible to understand what she was singing due to the same shrieking from the most frightening audience I have ever sat amongst, fortunately many of these were quite young and we can only hope they will grow out of it. I love to applaud and show an artist my appreciation but would prefer to wait until they have earned it. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE if you have to see this show buy a cheaper seat. - 212.241.226.130) | 27 Dec 06 |
| Absolutely amazing! the vocals from Idina Menzel are fantastic, and the supporting actors/actresses are brilliant too! i can't recommend this musical enough - i have seen it 4 times! Staging is great, you really feel involved with the story and the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda touches your heart. Best musical of 2006 without a doubt. - 195.93.21.73) | 25 Dec 06 |
| Go see this show! Big , Bold and touching. Idina Menzel should win everything this year for her reprisal of Elphaba. - 155.140.121.227) | 21 Dec 06 |
| Everthing about this show is more or less perfect, and it suffers for it. Each part seperately feels great, the sets and costumes are amazing, the performances strong and the music vibrant. But it all feels mechanical, the songs alternate from massive production number to solo song with alarming regularity. Each scene with few exceptions lasts about 10 minutes and then they move on to something new. All this means that there is very little individually that manages to shine, although Menzel's impressive belting will probably win her some awards. Don't get me wrong it's great fun and the plot is very clever in reworking the original film but it never quite "defies gravity" as it seems to want to. - 81.151.179.213) | 21 Dec 06 |
| Two stars: one for the set (even if it's not that awesome, Mary Poppins'set was more impressive) and one for the singers (sure, those girls can sing). Otherwise, this show is so overrated. Apart from a few (really a few) songs ("No good deed"), the rest is just cheesy pop, and not even good cheesy! But the worst part is the story and how it's told. What should have been (and I think was in the book) a dark story about good and evil and how one can be slowly push to "the dark side" became here a bad teen-TV drama. The characters are so annoying and empty. No one is good, no one is bad, everybody's tedious. You could say it has been Disneyfied, but I actually found deeper meaning in Beauty and the beast than in here! And I guess the director must have seen "The Producers" before he did this show, 'cause "Keep it gay" sure is his motto. In every scene you got silly kindergarden jokes that completely cut the drama that could have been. So, if you really love musicals, maybe you should see it, just to know, but I'm sure anybody can live without it. - 217.136.170.254) | 21 Dec 06 |
| Long live the lone star voters! Every person I know hated this as much as I did. Oh those dreadful wailing women and the whole Halloween window-dressing look of it - ghastly! It may be a girlie teen treat but for the rest of us - tedium and torture. Go see the newly restored movie and discover the real pleasures of Oz. - 82.35.188.73) | 20 Dec 06 |
| Impressive sets (as you'd expect given the money being made here), fine performances but what mediocre songs and such a naff story. A real case of the Emperor's new clothes. You feel you've gatecrashed a cult's private meeting what with the rapture that greets the nonsense on stage and the standing ovation. Why? The political satire is subtle as a sledgehammer and there's no decent jokes. This is a posh panto without the laughs. Unmemorable songs, cliches from 20 years of musical theatre and an ocean of American corn and schmaltz are the trademark of this one dimemsional, irritating bit of fluff. I'm no cultural snob but this seemed aimed at 14 year old school girls...but only the unsophisticated ones. Just hope next time I see the Judy Garland film I can blot out the memory of this overhyped import. - 195.93.21.73) | 19 Dec 06 |
| I usually find that musicals are better on a second viewing and, althogh I did enjoy Wicked more than when I saw it 5 weeks ago, I'm still not quite sure why it inspires such outlandish devotion. The script is still very funny in places and Helen Dallimore's performance as Glinda is excellent, even if her voice seems a bit tired. Previously I felt that the score was the problem and I still feel that way even if there are two or three memorable songs. Of course it is Idina Menzel who has such a strong fan-base. She can certainly belt out a showstopper but there is little versatility in her performance. Definitely an enjoyable show but not a great musical and one that may not survive the change of cast for very long in 2007. - 62.6.139.13) | 13 Dec 06 |
| I hated every minute of it. I made the mistake of paying £46 to see it, and I thought it was vapid, heartless, plotless, clumsily directed rubbish. None of the performers made me care about their characters (in fact, there was a definite feel of 'paid by the note') and I came out disappointed with the worst professional musical I've seen in years of theatregoing. Stay well away. - 212.32.83.185) | 07 Dec 06 |
| Total theatre! Happy to immerse myself in it's world for 3 hours. Brilliant. - 195.93.21.73) | 06 Dec 06 |
| This is the most over hyped piece of nonsense I have ever seen on a stage, I would give marks for the staging but not for anything else and it's leading lady shouted her way through the performance and left me cold. There is no real emotion in the story and I didn't care about a single character. Where have all these 4 & 5 star reviews come from, if you want real drama see 'Caroline or Change' or 'Evita'. - 212.241.226.130) | 05 Dec 06 |
| Ok...so the story isn't mind blowing and some of the songs aren't that good. But the set, the action and the fabulous performances totally make up for it. The show had everything...some great musical moments, some comedy moments, some sad bits and some edge of your seats bits. It does also quite cleverly change your perception of the wicked witch. You do actually feel sorry for her at the end. I wasn't sure what to expect from Wicked, but was pleased I went. Only major fault and unfortunately it is a biggy!! The sound at the apollo is shocking and I struggled to make out what the cast were actually singing at times! But do not let this put you off...you'll have a wicked time at WICKED! - 195.93.21.73) | 04 Dec 06 |
| i tell you what, this was by far the best musical i have seen in years, me being 57 is quite a challenge. So any one who disagrees is quite abnormal. thanks - 193.164.126.15) | 02 Dec 06 |
| I saw Wicked recently and I was totally blown away. Idina Menzel is a superstar, what a voice and by the end of act one and her Defying Gravity number, I have never been so moved with emotion. It is breathtaking, I would urge everyone to see this show. Going again on December 20th and can't wait. - 82.45.212.217) | 02 Dec 06 |
| So sorry but I have to say that I just did not enjoy this 'overated' show. Some great performances but truly a piece of nonsense. It looks nice but you need more than a good set to keep you 'enthralled' for what seemed to me like an eternity. Vocal Highlight was 'Defying Gravity'. - 212.241.226.130) | 20 Nov 06 |
| Went to the Matinee (18 November). Spectacular show but the sound was truly appalling hence this rating. We were in row F of Dress Circle (£55 per ticket). Good view. Spoken word could be heard and mostly understood but as soon as the orchestra struck-up we couldn't understand a syllable! There was just a wall of unintelligible sound! Very disappointing. - 195.93.21.10) | 19 Nov 06 |
| Let me say first that this is a show you either love or hate, as can be seen from the comments on this website. I was a big fan of the music and had been lucky enough to see it on Broadway before the West End, so knew what to expect. The show is simply stunning with superb performances, brilliant sets and that wonderful score. Of course Ms Menzel stands out and her voice is incredible - at times it's almost like she has a third lung! Defying Gravity at the end of the first act, is one of the most spectacular songs I've ever seen performed in a musical. I've been 4 times to the London production and having seen the standby Kerry Ellis, I can confirm the show is in good hands come January when Ms Menzel leaves. Kerry will be a big star in the future. One slight gripe though - it's an american story, so why don't all the cast perform it with american accents? Glinda just wasn't designed to be a sloane? That's the only thing that prevents me from giving it 5 stars. - 82.25.179.135) | 16 Nov 06 |
| What can I say. Had very high expectations for this show as I had heard the CD etc. Was a huge fan before and it just blew all my expectations to peices. I think within the first 5 minuites it had surpassed my wildest dreams. It was so good I have seen it three times and have ordered tickets for my 4th. Wonderful show! Wonderful Score, Fabulous performances! How do you describe Ms Menzel she is just amazing! Breathtaking. Anyone that hasn't gone yet go! And soon! - 84.70.10.117) | 10 Nov 06 |
| Perhaps my expectations were too high but I was underwhelmed by Wicked. The stage effects pale in comparison with Mary Poppins and many of the performances are barely above ordinary, including the over-hyped Idina Menzel. On a more positive note the show is based around an excellent book and there are a few shafts of wit but it does take itself terribly seriously. The major problem though is the score. Having listened to the CD I should have been prepared, but the fact is that there is not one memorable song in the entire show. Having said all that, my wife loved the show and raved about Ms Menzel so I can understand some of the 5-star reviews here - just not from me. - 62.6.139.13) | 09 Nov 06 |
| saw the sat matinee on nov5 ,a really great show very strong cast all round helen singing "popular" was excellent musical theatre ,and if idina menzal does not win at least one award there is no justice !!!! she is fantastic and so is helen amazing set and lighting a real spectacle , and great story fans of the wizard of oz will not be disapointed and love the way it intertwines with wicked not perfect a bit long but a wicked night out - 62.6.139.13) | 07 Nov 06 |
| Pretty dreary really. Flashy but ugly set, ear-bleeding score, fab performances, but dull, stupid book and annoying fans made this a pretty unpleasant experience. - 86.139.173.83) | 04 Nov 06 |
| The first time I came in contact with the show Wicked was watching the Tony Awards and seeing Idina Menzel singing Defying Gravity then watching the PBS special featuring Wicked and knew this was a show I had to see. The show was sold out when it came to L.A. for only seven weeks but my patience was rewarded when a family trip to London also happen to be the third week of Wicked. I immediately got three tickets at the Stalls and enjoyed every minute of it. Idina Menzel sounds as good if not better on stage than on the CD and gave a performance worthy of her receiving the Laurence Oliver award for best actress in a musical. Helen Dallimore captured the role of Glinda perfectly and her opening No Mourns the Wicked and the For Good was just powerful. The dancing plus the performances of the Nigel Planer, Adam Garcia, and Miriam Margolyes make Wicked a show that one can see over and over again. It was the first time I went to the Theater and was part of a standing ovation. I first saw the show on October 16 and was lucky to grab another three tickets for October 20 performance and words cannot describe I had enjoying the show again. If you could watch only one musical while in London or in fact in a year make sure it is Wicked. - 76.171.188.172) | 29 Oct 06 |
| i saw at on the 22 of october it was 1 of the best musicals ive ever seen and im 11 !!!!!!! :) - 195.93.21.73) | 29 Oct 06 |
| My my my! Wicked was AMAZING =]] I LOVED it so so so much and i would see it over and over and over again! Adam Garcia and Idina Menzel ARE AMAZING SINGERS!!!! I <3 Them both! xxx - 62.253.128.14) | 28 Oct 06 |
| what great entertainment this show is.....please let it run forever. - 86.139.232.138) | 26 Oct 06 |
| I cant describe the way this show made me feel... Ok, yes I admit I have been a fan of the show and many of the members of the cast (especially Idina) for a long time now, but never saw the production until yesterday! I was expecting it to be amazing but not as superbly amazing as it was!!! I was worried about how the english accents would sound, but it was actually fine. The show is spectacular and a must see. The seats were fabulous as well (row D) PHENOMINAL. - 80.3.128.8) | 26 Oct 06 |
| FANTASTIC !!!!!! well im 43 not 12 and this was a magnificent show (not pantomime) as some are calling it...great cast idina menzals vocals are superb not a note out of place and with the gorgeous helen dallimore its got everything.its a very professional slick production and performance i will be down to see this show again without a doubt....i have been to the west end many times to see shows this is the first time i have seen the leading ladies get a standing ovation..and it was well deserved...MAGNIFICENT. MARK WILLOUGHBY - 193.132.159.169) | 26 Oct 06 |
| Two things first: a) I recognise that this is a popular show, and (b) I adore Stephen Schwartz's work and was looking forward to seeing this so much. But what a disappointment it is. Pitched at an audience of 16 and under. Emotionally failing to engage, except in rare moments. ChildISH, not childLIKE. Filled with egomaniacal souls mostly with an emotional age of 12. "I'm different - I will make you popular - I've changed you, you've changed me ...." you know the sort of thing. No, I'm not being patronising. I like crap and shtick if it's good and if the entertainment value is there. But this is just shouty neo-Broadway rubbish. Don't go. - 82.12.246.135) | 23 Oct 06 |
| I think that this is the best of the musicals which have opened in the West End this year. The atmosphere inside the theatre is also the best and most ellectric that I can remember. This suprised me a little because of some of the poor, or at least average, reviews its recieved - although I suppose nothing irritates the critics more than when they know in advance that their reviews are irrelavant to a shows success. Idina Menzel's performance was absolutly sensational - she possesses the ability to hit the back of the theatre like no other actress I've seen - she also happens to be a pretty good actress and can deliver the sharp one liners with a wonderful dry wit. The one thing that did get me puzzled though was the permanent sets on the stage - what purpose did the huge dragon hoistered above the stage serve ? and what about the sets to the side of the stage - what purpose did they serve ? All the changing sets and scenery were wonderful, and the show has big number after big number - albeit with wonderful variation. For all the often less-than-flattering reviews, I though Adam Garcia's performance was OK - he's a good voice and can dance very well. Nigel Planer's Wizard was an egocentric incompetant fraudster - which he carried off to a tee. Helen Dallimore's 'Glinda' is an spoilt air-head with a hear - which you eventually come to like. Above all though its Menzel's 'Elphaba' whom stands out. Unquestionably the writers aim is for you to sympathise with this outsider (initially from her class-mates and them from a corrupt and superfiscal political regime) and that intention is realised. I found the songs reasonably original and certainly memorable (specifically 'Defying Gravity', 'Wizard and I' and 'Dancing Through Life'). OK, the musical may be formulaic, but its a fantastic night out, and is absolutly worth every penny a ticket costs. My advice though is to get to it before Menzel leaves in January - for hers is, in my opinion, every inch an Olivier winning performance. This is nothing short of a wonderful wonderful musical - long may it run. - 193.37.180.5) | 22 Oct 06 |
| Hugely enjoyable nonsense! Like everyone else in the audience tonight (and not an empty seat in the house!), I had a wickedly wonderful time. The show is what it is, overblown, spectacular fun, just what I needed after a knackering day! Superb performances from almost everyone - Idina, Helen and Miriam are notable. Go see it, and enjoy it for what it is, feel good twaddle ! - 87.74.74.80) | 19 Oct 06 |
| After missing out on this show following a visit to New York, on Saturday I was like a kid in a sweet shop waiting for the show to start and it certainly lived up to all my expectations. From the moment you enter the theatre you are transported to another world. Visually the show is stunning with great sets, lighting and costumes. The cast were all fantastic - I have seen comments about Adam Garcia being wooden, his character is meant to start off as someone who only really cares about himself and he pulls this off with aplomb and shows his caring side when needed in the second half. From other reviews it seems you either have to love or hate this show and I am certainly in the love category. My one criticism of the show is that it tries to cram too many themes in. The songs are catchy and I have been humming them all weekend. Oh and my other pet hate is the applauding/cheering by the audience before anyone has done anything. I cheered after the songs but I will not cheer someone just because of who they are!! I can't understand all the one stars on here all I can say is you must be really boring to not get anything from this show! - 205.156.117.1) | 16 Oct 06 |
| Saw Wicked last night with 5 other theatre professionals and we all LOVED it. The ideas,thought and love that has gone into this show is truly inspiring - what a talented creative team and cast. Great ensemble work. I loved the ending of Act One - superb - spine tingling. A show not to be missed! - 82.69.1.188) | 13 Oct 06 |
| I saw the matinee yesterday and before I carry on I better just say i have never been a fan of the cd so went curious to see what the fuss is all about! My sister only agreed to come as Adam Garcia is in it! lol The moment you arrive at the theatre you feel like your entering another world., your not just going to the theatre, your experiencing an event. The green themed lobby, the lighting, it all helps to add to the atmosphere. Its rare to get that these days. The Wicked experience isnt just the show. There was a pretty good buzz in the foyer but not quite as hyped as I expected. The merchandise was flying off the shelves. The set is impressive when you walk in. Although I have to say the grade of the slope in the stalls isnt very good. As the overture began I half expected (based on other reports) for mad screaming etc to start - but nope. There were definately Wicked fans there, and they cheered when Idina came on (the rest of the theatre looking at eachother wondering why) but otherwise it was pretty low key. After Idinas first song the entire audience went wild, that girl can sing - but more on her in a bit. The opening is done really well, love the use of projections and lighting throughout. Sets are awesome, Defying Gravity is one of the most exciting ends to an act in my view - I was so excited watching it. The story in places is clever how it twists and links to the Wizard of Oz, I did care about elphaba, the ballroom scene when everyone is laughing, a little moving (hey we have all been there!) and didnt want her to die-although when she doesnt I kinda felt that was a 'convenient' ending. However some of the script is clumsy, the last few lines between elphaba and fiyero before he leads her off were cheesy, and when Boq sees Nessa walk and says it changes everything, there were actually some groans from the audience. There was much more humour than I expected, the best joke when elphaba just discribes glinda as 'blonde'! lol Performances Idina - Well now I know why people love her. She has an incredable voice, good actress, adds humour and warmth to the role. She is a star, her voice is clear and powerful. This is HER role, the role i think she will forever be linked. helen - LOVE LOVE LOVE her! Very funny, gorgeous voice, great actress. Popular is a song (based on cd and clips) I never though was that good or funny, she did a great job. Loved the english accent. She held her own and with Idina they make a great pair. Adam Garcia - He is perfect for the cheeky pretty boy. He plays it very well, liked the English accent, although in Dancing through life (a pointless and weak song i thought) I think his accent affected his singing as he wasnt as strong as previous roles, his dancing and acting were great though. His second act duet was much better and was not sing over by Idina. He did well considering his character is under written and under developed. James Gillan & Katie Rowley Jones- loved his scottish accent, lovely voice and funny. He did a lot with not much of a role. She I thought was again excellent, if a little wasted in such a small role. Martin Ball - brilliant, again very memorable for such a small role. Miriam Margolyes & Nigel Planer - did a good job with their supporting roles. The beautiful people in lycra (ensemble) - they were well - beautiful! - they worked really really hard, clearly a demanding show, they were all strong and clearly loved being up there. didnt envy the monkey outfits! Is Wicked a great musical? - definately not. You dont really come out remembering any songs. I do think defying Gravity could become a classic. What is this feeling was very funny, and a pleasent surprise and No Good Deed was brilliantly performed by Idina. All the songs work within the context of the show, but alone they dont stand up. defying Gravity is also the only one that comes close to a showstopper which is a shame. Is it a great piece of entertainment - Most definately - I recommend it to anyone who wants a damn good nights entertainment and spectacle. Wicked is a mixture (in film terms) of a summer blockbuster and a teen movie. Its definately more style over substance, but so what! for 2.5 hours I was whisked off to another world and entertained- the land of oz just washed over me - I LOVED IT. Would I see it again? thats the problem - not sure. It was such an amazing experience, but as the surprise of the staging has gone, im not sure if there is enough to get me back there. - 81.153.76.95) | 08 Oct 06 |
| Absolutely fantastic. Brilliant atmosphere, brilliant performances - Idina was outstanding, she nailed Defying Gravity and the whole show for me was simply stunning and I have will never forget what I was priviledged to witness last night. - 195.93.21.73) | 08 Oct 06 |
| I think this show is beautiful and as a mere teenager, Understood this show perfectly well! It is much deeper then this critic makes out. It is about racism, trust, back-stabbing, love, manipulation and friendship. And as the story develops widens our minds to think of the world outside of us and inspite and magical mythycal tale speaks much truth about the world today. Georgia Frost - 86.29.25.172) | 07 Oct 06 |
| Very poor show. The audience actually scared me, there were hysterical scenes and applause before any of the performers actually did anything. Idina Menzel has a nice voice but there it all ends, she is actually wasted in this drivel. Save your money for something else. - 80.1.224.8) | 07 Oct 06 |
| Don't believe the hype! A perfectly adequate musical that has been hyped beyond anything resembling reality. Not one single memorable song, the worst performance I've ever seen in the West End (Adam Garcia, so wooden that it's a surprise he's not being chased by lumberjacks), two twists that are signposted at the start of the show and a lead actress that someone should have told that less is more. Nice end to Act 1 though. Based on 6th October 2006 performance. - 80.225.155.186) | 07 Oct 06 |
| After seeing many shows and write them too, I always think could I do better?, or could that song have been cut or been shorter or that cheesy lyric be different or he wasn't great as....but then I thought, this is someone elses vision, how they want it to be, the show already has achieved it's goal. Anyway I was tempted to leave at the interval, but I;m glad I didn;t because it all came together superbly in the second half and by then all missforgivings had been magically erased from my focus. Well done to all involved. - 86.143.169.209) | 06 Oct 06 |
| I've been 'slagged off' for multiple postings - by 'Jonnie' (who also goes by other pathetic names to attempt to avoid site detection!) and by 'The Adjudicator'. However, I've paid my 30 quid to join this site and I've only made a posting on each occasion that I've seen the show. That maybe 6 times and I apologise for apparently being a 'breathless 14 year old' or 'someone who doesn't get out enough' according to the multiple posts of "Johnnie". I am lucky enough to get paid to escort groups of people to the theatre and have thoroughly enjoyed the show. 'Wicked' is a fun - it is 'popular' entertainment. If you want to be cerebrally challenged - as we all do on occasions - stick to the National. PS I wouldn't waste the 30 quid on the subscription to this site - the magazine is distinctly second rate and the reduced price seats offered by whatsonstage.com are distinctly second best. Don't worry about admonishing me for further multiple postings - there won't be any. - 84.68.208.160) | 06 Oct 06 |
| The best musical in a long time. Not just a good story but good music and libretto good staging and wonderful performances from the smallest chorus role to the top stars. All in all a super treat for those lucky enough to get tickets. What I do not understand is what show our newspaper critics went to see! - 84.71.12.187) | 05 Oct 06 |
| Truly Awful. I cannot believe all the hype about this show, it may look good and has a great leading lady but nothing else, no good songs and really no story. I really didn't care about a single character. Sorry to be so negative but after reading the other reviews here and listening to an scary audience shriek before a single note was sang I thought somebody has to say something. Believe the reviewers and save your money for something better. - 195.224.116.2) | 05 Oct 06 |
| I saw matinee performance on 4 October. Excellent production. Very specatular/a good show with some thought provoking story substance particulary in the second half/ every one in fine voice.However I do have one negative criticism. The quality of the sound....at least where I was sitting, was very poor. Most of the words of most of the songs were totally inaudible. Had it not been for the fact that I had heard the CD of the Broadway cast, I would not have understood any of the words of most of the songs. This is a great pity. i wonder if this is the fault of the sound engineer or just the bad accoustics in the theatre???? - 82.35.9.63) | 04 Oct 06 |
| The show is a big colourful spectacle with some highly talented performers in the show. The stage set and the lighting are very impressive, sometimes breathtaking, and if you look for something just for pure entertainment go and see it! But if you look for something with heart and sould, don't - the story is rushed so much, so many elements which alone should have put into one show each are squeezed into one show, but then so much time is wasted on little things which are unneccassary and some of the dialogues are just ridiculous. There are two, three incredible songs in the show, but the rest of the songs sound like already heard somewhere else before. And some of the characters as The Wizard are so two dimensional, the voice of G(a)linda in the first act definitely has to win the 1st prize in the most irritating thing in a musical show this year (it gets better in the second act)! - 145.253.233.58) | 04 Oct 06 |
| Loved the show-hugely entertaining and spectacular-stunning and imaginative sets and costumes. It was also very witty and clever in the way it brings in elements of The Wizard of Oz. I thought the performances were terrific-especially Idina Menzel and Helen Dallimore who were just wonderful. I think the critics have been very po-faced. However-what let the show down for me was the horribly sappy ending-after all the spectacle that had gone before the show practically fizzles out with a horribly mushy song. Other negative points for me were that the characters of the Witches seemed to bear very little relation to the characters in The Wizard of Oz-the Wicked Witch is one of the scariest characters on celluloid and yet according to this version of events she was really a pussy cat! So-only 4 stars..but don't believe all the negative comments on here-if you love all things Oz you will be thoroughly entertained by this extravangza of a show. - 212.135.157.226) | 04 Oct 06 |
| Saw it last night, was sat in dress circle row j right in the middle. What is all the hype about? I couldn't hear everything , a lot of the lyrics were lost, one song in particular from Idina in the second half was unintelligible. It was loud, yes but could I make out many words? no. hadn't a clue what it was about, yet everyone went mad and applauded when she had finished. The sets were very good, costumes great, lighting great. This is the first "new" musical I have seen. I've known some of the songs from the 11 others I've been to and at most of them I've gone out humming the tunes, but Wicked, well I can only remember part of Defying Gravity and the effects in that were very good but had nothing of the wow factor I felt when I saw the car "fly" in Chitty, or Mary Poppins "fly" at the end of that show. All in all the show left me feling cold. - 81.86.114.181) | 04 Oct 06 |
| A very slick production, classily put together with a talented cast. Add that to a score that has been exciting theatre fans this side of the atlantic for years and this should have been the theatrical event of the decade. But it just doesn't live up to the sum of its parts. As the song says, "Everyone deserves a chance to fly", but somehow Wicked never really takes off. Even the spectacle we were promised isn't actually all that spectacular. Wicked is still an enjoyable night at the theatre, but it doesn't take that extra step into brilliance. - 62.252.64.30) | 04 Oct 06 |
| A spectacular, engrossing and thoroughly enjoyable show. The cast is excellent - Idina Menzel has a magnificent voice but Helen Dallimore is very good too. - 81.152.201.195) | 04 Oct 06 |
| Do we really want to get into an 'adjustment post' war? That is just plain ridiculous - you have no proof that people are multiple posters of rating. The only fact is that you are - and me now! - 195.93.21.73) | 03 Oct 06 |
| Quite simply, the most exciting, thought-provoking and delicious musical I have seen in over 20 years.Every song remains in my memory, the sets amazing, the singing (especially from Idina) breathtaking, the chorus work so tight and visually stunning: A loveable goat; an hilarious Madame; a charming Wizard: God bless Stephen Schwartz is all I can say! - 195.93.21.73) | 03 Oct 06 |
| Ever since seeing Kristin Chenoweth performing a song called "Changed for good" from some new musical called "Wicked" two years ago in the US.I have eagerly awaited it's arrival to our shores.Some musicals offer a few songs that linger for a short while after spending an expensive night out in London. Wicked holds much,much more. The alternative story to the "Wizard of Oz" centres on the comming together at school of the strangley green coloured Elphaba (Idina Menzel) and the dizzy Glinda (Helen Dallimore)and how their relationship changes from one of initial loathing.They go to the Emerald City (of course) and there are twists as the Wizard (Nigel Planer) turns out not to be as good as he's cracked up to be. The love interest is provided by Fiyero (Adam Garcia)who is initially drawn to the bubbly blonde Glinda only to realise his heart belongs to Elphaba. Is Elphaba really wicked?Is Glinda as squeaky clean as she seems ? What is the Wizard" up to? All will be (In what is a superb package)revealed. Superb vocally throughout, special mentions must go to Helen Dallimore and Idina Menzel.Their performances both in solo and duets were quite simply the best I have seen. From the fun of "Popular" to the intensley moving "Changed for good". Idina Menzel has the great fortune of getting to perform two of the best songs to have graced the Stage in a long time.You will not believe your eyes and ears when you see "Defying Gravity" If you thought the production on the album was good ,hold on to your hats as Idina raises the performance bar ,and then some!And if that wasn't enough we are treated to "No Good Deed" Both showing what complete control Ms Menzel has over the songs ,the stage, and the audience. Nigel Planer captured the imagination with his portrayal of the Wizard.As did Miriam Margoyles as Madam Morrible.Adam Garcia needed to be a little less serious, again a good voice unfortunately having the weakest song in the show "Dancing Though Life" as his openner, but more than making up for this with his duet with Elphaba.I thought Martin Ball portrayal of the talking goat teacher Doctor Dillamond was excellent as was the performance of Katie Rowley Jones (Who has a beutiful voice)as Elphabas Sister.James Gillan as Boq was at complete ease, very good vocally and I could have listenned to him more. In these days of CGI working miracles on screen it must be hard to set out to impress theatre goers. But the team responsible for this creation lights ,Sound, Set deserve all the plaudits they will receive. A very tight Band provided the backbone for this show along with the whole cast that just "ouzes" class. Yep, I liked it ...........a lot! - 88.110.172.57) | 03 Oct 06 |
| No matter what the faults of this show may be, if indeed it has faults, it is certainly not worth a 1* rating. In fact I would be hard pressed to find any show in a lifetime of theatre going to which I would give a 1* rating. You are just being silly and I discount your opinions, although of course you are entitled. Actually I rather think Wicked deserves 5***** but I will hold it to 4****. Only because I don't want to be thought of as the opposite of these theatrical naysayers, who would no doubt give any overwhelmingly "Popular" show the same treatment! You remind me of the bigger kids in schoolyards who go around knocking down all the amazing forts and snow castles built by the smaller students as soon as they are made. Wicked is here to stay. Deal with it! - 64.228.45.77) | 03 Oct 06 |
| WICKEDLY GOOD! I initially saw the show on Broadway two years ago and I even enjoyed it MORE the second time round in London! Those critics who found the story confusing should maybe go see the show again. It is a fantastic night out and just what musical theatre should be - great sets, costumes, , wonderful singing and acting and an extremely clever script or "book" giving one the "other side" of the story of the Wizard of Oz. One of the best musicals of all time and the definitive representative of the "musical" in the first decade of this century. It's "fantabulatios" (to try and speak "wickedly:-)"!! Very highly recommended! - 198.54.202.226) | 03 Oct 06 |
| I'd advise anyone wanting a rattling good night out to ignore the stuffy broadsheet critics and head out to Wicked. No, it's not intellectually challenging - but it's great fun, wonderfully cast and directed and will make you a happier person as you head for a post show refresher...... - 85.133.19.2) | 03 Oct 06 |
| The variety of reaction to this show is amazing (I've seen it twice in London, and once in NYC). Wicked is not meant to change your life -- it is offered to richly entertain -- and it does. Stephen Schwartz's music and lyrics as well as Idina Menzel's performance are extraordinary. Fortunately, some of Wicked's most pompous, theatre-critic-wannabes (on this site) are producing just the right result -- packed houses having a wonderful time. Wicked Rules! - 212.2.2.86) | 03 Oct 06 |
| What a disappointment this turned out to be! After all the hype and build-up I was expecting to be bowled away by a spectacle of Oz proportions, but was actually bored and restless and seriously wondering where the plaudits were coming from. This could and should have been an interesting look at how the two main Witches of Oz became who they were, yet the story was juvenile, badly scripted and more akin to a pantomime than anything more rigorous. Why was Glinda the good Witch so ditzy and blonde and ridiculous, like some vapid character from a US school series - it bore no resemblance to the sagely and likeable character in the Wizard of Oz, making the whole thing unbelievable. As for the music - dull tunes that you couldn't hum, more like sing-through than real melodies, and staging nowhere near as dramatic as you would have expected. "Which Witch", the Scandinavian musical from years ago, did the whole thing far more spectacularly and was given a drubbing down, yet this mediocre piece of theatre has been hyped up to the gills with very little pay-off. Most disappointing. - 195.33.121.133) | 03 Oct 06 |
| I need more stars ! 10 at least ! I loved the original book and the show is wonderful too (even with the cop-out ending). Great set, fantastic costumes and a brilliant time will be had by all. Every song was greeted with thunderous applause and you could have heard a pin drop when the 2 witches sing "For good" together. You'll never see W of Oz movie in quite the same way again after you've read the book and you'll want to see the musical again and again. - 155.136.80.26) | 02 Oct 06 |
| another adjustment posting to balance Christopher Gough who is either a breathless fourteen year old or needs to get out more. - 195.93.21.73) | 02 Oct 06 |
| I thought this show was excellent, it had me laughing and crying. Thought the story was well done and touching. Idina Menzel was amazing. I have to admit I went to see the show particulary for Adam Garcia who I thought was very good, thought the show was very well done and wouldn't hesitate in seeing it again - with or without Adam Garcia! - 62.231.144.182) | 02 Oct 06 |
| No substance, no heart? I cannot understand these comments at all. The book may not the strongest in musical history and yet the relationship between the 2 leads is well developed and Elphaba's journey is deeply moving and thought-provoking. The reaction by the sell-out audience is not just restricted to the fans but by the majority of theatre-goers. This show has gripped people's imagination like no other in the past decade or so. Celebrate that! - 195.93.21.73) | 01 Oct 06 |
| The most phenominal production I have ever seen! Idina has fantastic vocals and is a great actress, Helen is amazing as Glinda but a shame they couldnt have kept the american accents!! Its just not the same. Apart from that the performances by all cast, the costumes, the set, the orchestra (absolutley everything in other words!) was brilliant! Please dont presume that all wicked has to offer is its magical and amazing costumes/set etc it is alot more than that, its an intimate story of a beautiful friendship between two women and how they turn out to be the way they are. It has deep meaning. Finally a fantastic show that has two lead females in it! I'm going again! - 80.3.128.8) | 01 Oct 06 |
| I had never been to a show where the audience cheers BEFORE the performance actually starts. The near hysterical enthusiasm reminded me of footage of shrieking Frank Sinatra and Beatles fans. WICKED clearly possesses the ingredients of a cult musical in the making. For those few who do not already know, WICKED (based on the novel by Gregory Maguire) offers an insight into the lives of the Witches of Oz before and after Dorothy drops down from the sky. The plot – albeit predictible – is interesting enough, although Winnie Holzman's book fails to develop some of the subjects it hints at. The themes of the gradual increase of control over the citizens of Oz, the sinister government spying, and the consequent state of tyranny would have benefited from being more fully explored. When the Wizard explains to Elphaba that the surest way to control a population, is to give it an enemy, WICKED implies that it is about to make a political statement but the intention seems to fizzle out. Consequently, the underlying darkness of story, which would have given the show a welcome depth – gets somewhat lost along the way. Idina Menzel is the unquestionable star of the show, and deserves every pre and post appearance applause. Her Elphaba generates genuine pathos as the bitterly unhappy creature singled out by an accident of birth to stand up alone against the onset of oppression. Her earthy voice touches you to the core. Helen Dallimore is Glinda, Elphaba's nemesis. The irredeemably shallow prom queen with – when it comes to the crunch – a kind heart. She brings great humour and self-teasing to the role, giving a part that never has any chance of competing with Elphaba for the general public affections, great skill and charm. Thanks to Adam Garcia's sensitive acting, Fiyero is the only character in the show who is seen markedly to develop throughout the storyline, from spoilt rich boy to a man who sacrifices everything for his love. Miriam Margolyes provides a very entertaining, Harry Potter kind of touch to Madame Morrible. Sadly, one thing WICKED lacks, is seamlessness. One cannot help the feeling that it is a show that is only as good as its (luckily very talented) performers who appear left to their own devices. Joe Mantello's direction is rather disjointed. Wayne Cilento's choreography looks experimental and lacks polish. In the dance numbers, the performers move as though each is doing his/her own thing, without an overall harmony. Stephen Schwartz's score is effective but at times tuneless. His lyrics are neither especially witty or original but they serve the purpose of the story. Whether WICKED will join the Mount Olympus of truly great musicals, only time will show. In the meantime, it is a must see for all musical theatre lovers. What it lacks in heart, it makes up with spectacle. And the performers give it their all. Scribe Doll - 213.122.69.23) | 01 Oct 06 |
| Complete triumph of style over substance - impressive to look at but hollow and obvious at every turn. I prefer something a bit more challenging, not frankly vapid American morality-tales dressed up as entertainment. I believed much of the hype prior to seeing the show and was extremely disappointed. - 82.3.65.222) | 01 Oct 06 |
| This shows is very "popular" with mothers and daughters, which no doubt will keep it a sold out success in the West End as it has been on Broadway. The production however is way overblown. Idina Menzel is screechy, Nigel Planner never in danger of being considered an actor or a singer, is not in danger of changing anyone's opinion. Miriam and Helen are fine, but not enough to save the show. - 12.103.239.76) | 29 Sep 06 |
| I fail to see what all the hype is about with this show. I went to see it after reading reviews of the Broadway production, and I was utterly disappointed. The only good thing about it for me, was Miriam Margolyes who is (as always) brilliant. - 80.177.14.225) | 29 Sep 06 |
| For me WICKED represents the difference between a great show and a great musical. Joe Mantello's glossy, exhilarating production, with Eugene Lee and Susan Hilferty's jaw-droppingly gorgeous and spectacular designs is a triumph. Also the cast (with the exceptions of the two young male leads) are spot-on, and there are moments of spine-tingling excitement here. Yet Winnie Holzman's book, while often funny and sometimes thought-provoking, is often uneven, as is Stephen Schwartz's score which soars thrillingly at times but is a little ordinary at others. I suspect the sheer size of the Apollo Victoria stopped me from being moved quite as much as I'd hoped to be but I still found this a magical and hugely enjoyable experience, and one I will definitely repeat. Nigel Planer and the wonderful Miriam Margolyes provide sterling support for the witches: Idina Menzel's Elphaba is a detailed, fully rounded, superbly sung account of the green witch, a real star turn, while Helen Dallimore's Glinda is an entrancing West End debut, as touching as she's hilarious. They work brilliantly together. Wicked isn't perfect, but it is still a must-see. - 195.82.123.181) | 29 Sep 06 |
| I saw it on broadway and on opening night in London and going again for my birthday next week and I think it is a great show, best thing I have seen this year and I go to the theatre a lot. People keep going on about it being "pantomime". Well I dont know what pantomimed they go to but there is no audience participation like panto. I love the show and will certainly go and see it more than once - 217.36.231.41) | 29 Sep 06 |
| Only in the uk can people go to the theatre for entertainment and then moan that it is not intelligent enough!I have seen many a production in the west end and on broadway and assure you this in my opinion is excellent. Idina is phenomenal as is the set,costumes and score. The best show I have ever seen. - 62.252.64.30) | 29 Sep 06 |
| Seems a little unfair that Christopher Gough should post his five star rating SIX times and thus falsify the Average User Rating. If you MUST rave at such length, Chris, do it in the Discussion section where your views can be more appropriately counterbalanced by dissenting opinions. This is an adjustment posting. - 82.35.188.70) | 29 Sep 06 |
| this is just the best show in town for a very very long time may it run and run - 80.3.64.12) | 29 Sep 06 |
| Saw it again on 28th - as at every peformance since 7th - 2,400 people on their feet at the end. Pure entertainment. - 84.68.173.67) | 29 Sep 06 |
| A triumph of hype and flash over substance and intelligence. Entertaining if utterly brainless. Some great performances, stunning to look at, but ultimately empty. - 86.135.187.237) | 28 Sep 06 |
| Adored it. Both on Broadway and here - where I think Idina Menzel shines even more. People seem to have lost the ability to just go to the theatre, have fun and marvel at a well put together show without analysising it and expecting it to educate or be something deeper. Original songs, original concept well executed in my opinion and judging by the majority of audience reaction at the two performances I was at is loved by the ordinary people rather than so-called theatre lovies. I'm sure that audience word of mouth will give this show a long and healthy life in the West End. - 82.69.13.151) | 28 Sep 06 |
| Generally there is merit in both points of view being expressed in these reviews - is it a pantomime?, is it a brilliant piece of theatre? It's fantastically polished, the set, costumes and and dancing are great and Idina Menzel has undoubted star quality - what a voice! I am not easily wowed, but the tableau at the end of the first act when she sings defying gravity is stunning. Can't agree with any negative comments about her stage prescence or acting. Just lose yourself in fantasy - don't look for moving scenes or great depth and go with the flow - you'll love it. I did and that's why it gets top marks. - 81.19.57.138) | 28 Sep 06 |
| Well I'm afraid Im going to have to disagree with a few people on here saying its a 'pantomime'. I can see how people can class it as a pantomime, as it does have a few quirky jokes which give it the pantomime edge, but this is a stunning and absolutely overwhelming production which must be seen by everyone and anyone looking for a spark of magic! Idina Menzel is one of the most fantastic actresses out there, she has the most beautiful voice and can hold the most perfect notes. The rest of the cast are also top notch. The sets, costumes and lighting are all spectacular, especially Defying Gravity, one of the high points in the show, what a way to end the first Act! The show ended with a well deserved standing ovation, Im planning to book to see Idina once more before she leaves, And Kerry Ellis in January. Loved it! Please go and see it! You'll be missing out! =D - 80.3.160.10) | 26 Sep 06 |
| A very slick pantomime, and rather empty show. A bit lick a sponge. Not a show I would pay to see again. - 213.86.133.216) | 26 Sep 06 |
| I didn't think there was any need to reiterate what everyone else had very eloquently already said. Safe is absolutely the word. I can understand how this happens, when a show costs as much as it does to produce (on Broadway especially) no one in their right minds are going to invest in something that doesn't appear to be a certainty. And to be a certainty you have to play a very safe game, reconstitute old well-worn ideas and give people what they think they want, namely what they last enjoyed but only slightly different. But that spirals out of control, and this is the result of that. Brilliant marketing, a fairly good idea, but every single second of it you've heard (and seen) before. There's not a bar of the music that takes you by surprise, that you can't almost hum along to on FIRST hearing, not a lyric that leaps off the stage and makes you really think. It's incredibly glossy and slick and rides as smoothly as a new roller coaster, but is so so unadventurous and vacuous. I should have saved my money and gone to Disneyland - for the same mass produced brainless corporate product that treats us like morons. - 84.65.212.54) | 25 Sep 06 |
| Well, I'm not an indignant 1 or an effusive 5; I'm an indifferent 3 ! What was so extrordinary about this evening was that I felt more out-of-tune with the rest of the audience than I ever have before. It's certainly good spectacle.....it's slick and efficient.....but I felt totally uninvolved and it left me completely cold. The idea of a 'prequel' is good and the design and costumes are terrifically OTT, but the music is bland and the performances acting-by-numbers. Great musicals are MAGIC, but if you want magic, you'll need to go accross the road to Billy Elliott - this is PRODUCT. It's theatre for lovers of spectacle rather than theatre and the audience absolutely loved it. It's safe. The coach-party bookers will clean up. I have a suspicion we are witnessing the real future of the West End musical, which is the most depressing thing of all..... - 86.130.210.245) | 22 Sep 06 |
| Went to see Wicked after rave reviews from friends and was very disappointed. Like Glinda's History essay, it was all form and no content. The sets, costumes and lighting are very good, there's no doubt about it. But I don't spend that much money just to go to the theatre to see that. I want a drama to go with it and there is no drama in Wicked whatsoever. There should be... it's a terrific idea... but somehow it just evaporates. We don't really care about any of the characters other than Elphaba. Even Glinda is pretty wishy-washy. Idina Menzel was good enough although I wouldn't rave as if she was God's Gift. The rest were OK at best. Miriam Margolyes is always good value of course, but I would have preferred someone who could sing. On the other hand the Wizard's song was a waste of space and could easily be cut. It does Absolutely Nothing to further the drama in any way whatsoever. Someone has referred to the show as a pantomime and I understand what they mean, however we do pantomime much better in this country, and at least they tend to be funny. There was no wit in this to speak of. The references to people from the film were to be expected, but they weren't necessarily witty. The one touch I did like was Adam Garcia turning into the Scarecrow at the end. That was good. Not worth a full price ticket though. - 80.1.224.8) | 21 Sep 06 |
| Or perhaps 'Johnnie' is a theatre snob who can't explain himself!? - 84.68.33.66) | 20 Sep 06 |
| I have to agree...a HUGE disappointment and without the talents of Idina Menzel it would indeed be panto - the acting from the rest of the cast was just awful. I also found the "fans" reactions completely over the top and annoying. On top of that to admit the amount of latecomers in last night's show was totally inconsiderate - is there no theatre etiquette left?!!! - 86.130.79.189) | 19 Sep 06 |
| Oh Christopher Gough get over yourself. This show is utter tripe. - 84.65.212.54) | 19 Sep 06 |
| This is the most over piece of theatre I have ever seen. Fortunately you have a wonderful vocal performance from Idina Menzel but the story is dreadfully dull and weak. Looks good but no substance, I was bored and could not understand why so many of the 'freaky' audience members were screaming so much. - 195.224.116.2) | 19 Sep 06 |
| I saw this show on saturday night and have to say was rather dissapointed. Not in the cast but the whole production which is rather overblown. The leading ladies are wonderful in particular Idina. The lighting is great but I kept thinking I had seen this all before. I cannot see this lasting too long after Christmas so see it while you can as it is a damm good panto! - 80.225.184.103) | 18 Sep 06 |
| Nicholas - I find it odd that anyone can go to a show like 'Wicked' hoping only to find it 'interesting'. It doesn't sound like you were hoping for much in the first place! Who was so inappropriately cast? Whose performances warranted the capitalisation? Surely a critique requires exposition not only conclusion? - 84.68.33.66) | 18 Sep 06 |
| Dissapointing, one of the biggest theatrical letdowns of the last 5 years. What could have been an interesting show has been ruined by idiotic and innapropriate casting, and quite frankly TERRIBLE performances by everybody except the leading lady - who just about held the awful production together. - 85.142.16.194) | 18 Sep 06 |
| Amazing - 86.136.85.79) | 16 Sep 06 |
| Stunning lighting, a totally breathtaking performance by Idina Menzel and an audience full of obvious "groupies" still could not salvage this absymal shambles of a musical. Once Idina leaves the cast, there is absolutely nothing worth seeing. Weak material, end-of-the-pier pantomime scenery and cringeworthy performances in particular from Adam Garcia, Nigel Planer and Helen Dallimore should be enough to keep this theatre empty from January onwards. - 81.151.146.29) | 16 Sep 06 |
| So naff that I cringed through it. A bunch of cliched characters, cheesy songs, overpriced camp plasticky set and the worst acting i've seen in London for a while. - 62.252.64.30) | 15 Sep 06 |
| I expect the critics will say pretty much what you did Mikey - but in the lyrics of the piece - 'its popular - its all about popular!' I thought Sondheim's 'Sunday in the Park' was brilliant - can't wait for Kushner/Tesori's 'Caroline or Change' at the National but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a blockbuster that doesn't exactly tax the brain. Its a feelgood show. Yes, you are right, it appeals to teenage girls and gay guys - but so what? I can't believe the 3 US productions are thriving only on kids and camp? I think its OK to like Schwartz and Sondheim - but I can't see Universal Pictures investing in the latter. He's not 'popular' enough! - 84.68.33.66) | 15 Sep 06 |
| Winthrop has nailed it! I was not impressed with Wicked in NY last year but went again this week hoping for a better experience, and disliked it just as much! The millions they have spent are certainly obvious, the performances are adequate (especially Miriam Margolyes who is rather good) and all the wheels turned smoothly, but the plot is just so damn tedius, the characters tiresome, the songs banal and the dancing end-of-pier stuff - a small panto show swamped in an overblown production with an odd feeling of anticlimax at the finish (wasted time?). The fans went hysterical, cheering and whistling at every reference to the original Oz. I say it will only appeal to adolescent teenage girls who will love its theme of girly friendships, and camp gays who will adore the glitter and...er...camp. This is the paste jewel among the West End's musical gems, and we must remember that All That Ger-lindas is not gold! I wonder what the critics will have to say. This one has spoken! - 82.43.174.31) | 15 Sep 06 |
| I have to disagree that this show is in any way bland or disparagingly 'American'; its the archetypal 'Broadway Musical' - a genre we should embrace in the UK as much as our exports which work just as well in New York. I saw the first preview on 7th Sept and saw the show again on 14th. My word, they have worked hard on it during that week! Not that the first preview was bad - but one week later the production looks totally 'match fit'. Idina Menzel totally nailed that performance tonight - 'Defying Gravity' and 'No Good Deed' were awesome. I know its something she's sung maybe 400 times but she seemed to have completely relaxed into the London production and the reticence to go for the most demanding notes that was apparent in the first show - mainly in 'Defying Gravity' has completely gone. Helen Dallimore's Glinda has come on leaps and bounds in that week. The comic timing is now spot on - 'thank goodness' they've reinstated 'unprepossessing features' instead of 'unflattering features' which just did not work in 'Popular'. I think everyone in the UK is so used to the OBCR that a dotty very English Glinda was a bit of a shock - but seeing and hearing the portrayal for a second time - its just great and its getting funnier. I think Helen is going to grow into that part even more over the next week or two. The only bit of comic timing she could improve is the line in 'Popular' when she is telling Elphaba: - 'lets start 'cos you've got an awfully long way to go' - it needs a bit more emphasis to indicate what a 'state' Elphaba is in. I've seen an illicit bit of video on the web where one of the US actresses rolls her hands over and over as she says it and it works really well. Nigel Planer seemed to loosen up as the Wizard too. There was more swank and panache than a week ago and the singing was more enthusiastic - he seemed to be really going for it and just more confident. Miriam Margolyes and Martin Ball seemed to be at the top of their game in the first preview and to me they were playing Madame Morrible and Dr Dillamond just the same tonight - they seem 'home and dry' and don't need to tamper with anything. Adam Garcia as Fiyero? I saw lots of negative comments on the web about his performance and he still looks uneasy to me. He's fine in Act Two where Fiyero is more serious - Captain of the Guard and all that - but its 'Dancing through Life' that lacks a bit of swagger and well - sex. I don't know if the choreography for London is exactly the same for London as for the US productions but it seems to me that its Fiyero's moves that rein him in a bit during the dance sequences. Glinda is obviously 'hooked' - but he needs a few sexier dance moves - let him 'Tony Manero' it a bit to get the sexy and dissolute prince's character across to the rest of us. Adam is obviously great looking - let him use his attributes to the best advantage in the Ozdust ballroom. I don't think there's anything wrong with his ability - its the part that's not quite right. I'm still not convinced that the sound is right - I have no idea how that is adjusted - or if it can be - but where principals are singing with the full company e.g. in 'One Short Day' they are not quite prominent enough - Idina and Helen were not sufficiently 'picked out' when singing the 'there are buildings tall as quoxwood trees/dress salons/and libraries/palaces/museums/a hundred strong'. I was in E36 in the stalls - which is very much to the side of the theatre - perhaps it was a quirk from that position - but I could have done with a more treble sound to the principal vocals from there and picked them out even more in the mix. But what do I know? All I can say is 'very well done guys' - technicians and performers -everyone seems to be really believing they can pull this off now - I am really looking forward to seeing the show again at the charity preview and getting to have a chat with some of you at the dinner - if you have any energy left to make that! - 84.68.33.66) | 15 Sep 06 |
| Ok, the soundtrack is great, yes..however, sitting through nearly three hours of banal storytelling and one or two "moments" this show is purely for an American audience who appreciate schmaltz in oversize portions. Idina Menzel's rather bland performance is dissapointing, she can sing but after 20 minutes really fails to add any sort of depth to the panto-esque proceedings. I really wanted to enjoy this but I couldn't help thiking the Americans have given us a painting by numbers of the Broadway version. I'm sorry but we Brits prefer a bit more substance over style. If I were you, I'd walk past the Appollo and march the extra twenty yards to the Victoria Palace (Billy Elliot) in fact NO!! I'd crawl on my hands and knees to the Victoria Palace to see a musical which really does deliver. - 86.129.175.49) | 14 Sep 06 |
| Fabulous! A week into its preview run and this show is looking VERY polished. This is a big event, and a real treat to the senses, full marks production of this show, the costumes, set and lighting are remarkable and the company delivered a knock out performance. I rarely go and see and second performance of a show but this one I will. There is no gravitas to this show, after all we're talking about witches, munchkins and Oz here, but for a like hearted romp then this is the business. - 172.209.84.243) | 14 Sep 06 |
| This show is really good but still I felt there was something ......missing. Be warned the show has hardly any resemblance to the book as well. Music is amazing but sound amateurish at points as does some of Mantello's stagings. Set is the best thing i think. idina is astounding but also weak at points. Dallimore needs to pick up her act but i am almost certain that will smooth itself out at times. The sound was the major bummer for me waving in and out a lot. Not loud enough when you want it and not subtle enough when you don't. The show will pick up but after press night i would recommend it to anyone! ADVICE: wait a few weeks then go. - 84.70.59.98) | 13 Sep 06 |
| Truly Unbelievably Genius. The whole cast are amazing, as are the set, lights, costume and choreography - really, really, go to see this and take EVERYONE you know. - 89.241.106.176) | 13 Sep 06 |
| The points given are purely for the cast and production but however you look at it the material is incredibly weak and it's a story that really isnt worth telling. The company deserve better. - 195.224.116.2) | 12 Sep 06 |
| Just seen the first preview of 'Wicked'. Apart from being in a theatre big enough to house 2,346 other people this show is BIG! Glinda's bubble refused to convey her onto the set and the show closed 3 or 4 minutes after it opened. After that glitch, they restarted the show at the beginning and it was mostly fine. The benches in the lecture room scene wouldn't appear and the students sat on the floor - but it was OK. Idina Menzel was excellent - she fluffed the highest note on 'Defying Gravity' but it didn't matter. The audience went wild tonight - I don't think I have ever seen a more rapturous reception at any West End show. Miriam Margoyles delivered Madame Morrible as spoken rather than sung - but added gravitas to the part. Nigel Planer's Wizard had an American accent - Boq was Scottish - Glinda was posh 'Home Counties' - a real mix with Idina Menzel's American Elphaba too! To me (not having seen a production of Wicked before) the first act feels it needs a bit of work - just timing/pauses - that kind of thing. There seemed to be a few pregnant pauses it could have done without. That may be down to the shaky start - I don't know. The second act appeared to be fully 'match fit'. It looked like they had done it a 100 times. Idina Menzel's 'No Good Deed' was the highlight to me - she nailed it perfectly. By opening night it will be very slick - and will be running at the Apollo Victoria for a decade or more - no question. - 84.68.33.66) | 08 Sep 06 |
| Fantastic Show! Delightful story, engaging music with thoughtful lyrics. More importantly...it's great fun...with a twist! Highly recommended. Saw the show in Toronto Canada and hope to repeat in London. - 69.158.21.204) | 23 Aug 06 |
| How pathetic to review a show before it has begun here! Yes, Wicked is entertaining with a good score, but it's ultimately pretty empty fluff - not at all worthy of any great accolades. - 86.136.129.202) | 12 Aug 06 |
| HIGHLY RECOMMENDED to all those who love musicals!!! I saw it in NYC too and it was my first musical in Bway. It's witty, it's magical, it's brilliant!! The best musical ever!! - 80.33.19.187) | 03 May 06 |
| AMAZING can be the only word for this show . some of the best music ever to grace the stage and the set is just a big wow . very excited to see what the show will look like here in the west end . if you can catch idina in the role too thats a bonus . this is definatley the hit the west end needs . - 195.224.116.2) | 26 Apr 06 |
| I saw Wicked on Broadway in NYC. It is with out a doubt the best Musical I have ever seen. - 62.252.32.15) | 11 Mar 06 |
| I'm from the U.S. and saw it in Chicago. It is, by far, one of the greatest theatrical events EVER! It ranks with Phantom! - 70.225.177.153) | 06 Jan 06 |
