A 25-minute delay to the opening night of "Wicked" at the Birmingham Hippodrome due to “technical gremlins” barely damped the spirits of the full house last night, in fact, if anything, it made anticipation for the show even greater. 

Wicked has already been seen by more than 65 million people worldwide, and with a feature film due out at the end of the year, this run at the Hippodrome is a spellbinding extravaganza that enchants audiences with its captivating storytelling, breathtaking performances, and dazzling production values. Set in the magical land of Oz, the musical serves as a prequel to the beloved tale of "The Wizard of Oz," offering a fresh perspective on the untold story of the Witches of Oz.

From the moment the curtain rises, audiences are transported into a world of wonder and intrigue. The dynamic duo of Elphaba and Glinda, portrayed with undeniable charisma and vocal prowess by the talented cast, takes centre stage, weaving a tale of friendship, betrayal, and self-discovery. Laura Pick's portrayal of Elphaba is nothing short of mesmerizing, capturing the character's complexity with nuance and power, with an incredible voice, while Sarah O'Connor's Glinda shines with effervescent charm and comic timing. I cannot begin to do justice about how incredible these two lead performances are.  Carl Man, who we interviewed on Switch in the lead to this run, is perfect as Fiyero. 

The production values of "Wicked" are truly spectacular, with stunning set designs, dazzling costumes, and awe-inspiring special effects that bring the magical land of Oz to life before our eyes. The iconic score by Stephen Schwartz is performed with gusto by the orchestra, underscoring the emotional depth of the story and leaving audiences humming the unforgettable tunes long after the final curtain call. The signature song of Defying Gravity where Elphaba is launched to the very top of the stage is a particular highlight, also bringing into sight a moving dragon's head perched at the top of the stage! 

But beyond its visual and auditory splendour, "Wicked" also delivers a poignant message about the importance of acceptance, individuality, and the power of friendship. As Elphaba and Glinda navigate the complexities of their relationship amidst the political turmoil of Oz, they teach us valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and the true meaning of heroism.

In conclusion, "Wicked" at the Birmingham Hippodrome is a must-see theatrical experience that will leave audiences spellbound from beginning to end. With its powerhouse performances, dazzling production values, and timeless message of friendship and acceptance, it earns its place as one of the greatest musicals of all time.

Wicked runs at the Birmingham Hippodrome until Sunday April 7^th 2024, with limited tickets available here: