Wicked: A Handprint on my Heart

The fourth time to Oz proved to be a deeply moving one.
Without a doubt, Wicked is my favourite musical, period.

* It is just goodness to see actors up there working their craft and making characters come to life. Such a bizarre concept live theatre is, but when done well, it electrifies the senses.

* I have now seen Idina, Shoshana, Stephanie, and Dee.

* All had their strengths... On Thursday, Dee was viciously sharing her tale with me and it was impeccable.

* Unless I was suffering from some episode, there have been tweaks to dialogue, song, and special effects. All interesting... all noted.

* I think that Defying Gravity is the culmination of brilliant scene writing by Winnie Holzman. After all that Elphaba has experienced, everyone is ready for her to proclaim her rebellion. I am like a child in those moments... I simply cannot get enough of the story/song. When she bounds to the air, I forget that it is a hydraulic lift. I believe that a green witch can fly... I believe, I believe.

* The light that bathes Elphie in Defying is a special effect... so cool that it is live and not CGI'd in ala film.

* This was the best ensemble I have seen of the four performances attended. They all had voices that worked well together and each possessed such control... more musical line and dynamic contrast were evident. Nice, nice, nice.

* I often mistakingly refer to the role of Glinda/Galinda as Kristin because the other two women I had seen (before Thursday, that is) were fine actresses/singers but the role seemed like it had been hemmed wrong or something... not their fault, mind you, but it was not organic. Erin Mackey has made this role her own!!!! She is rather Cheri Oteri in some instances and it makes me giddy. Popular was truly funny and a refreshing difference to Kristin's rendition (although I think that Chenoweth was indeed a comic tour de force). Good for you Ms. Mackey.

* Dee Roscioli eats every moment... actually a bold choice as it could appear "overacted", but she is fascinating to watch in every scene. Hearing her sing is a treat as well.

* And a "I liked you in your first line o' dialogue" goes to Boq portrayed capably (with his own take on the Munchkin) by the talented (and adorable) Stanton Nash. You made me love Boq more than any of your predecessors.

CONGRATS to WICKED in Chicago... it has been over three years since I last escaped into Oz and you guys made me wish it were a double feature. :-)

dab

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