IT’S perfect timing that the lavish touring production of the hugely popular musical Wicked has just arrived in Southampton.
It adds that extra little dimension that this witch-origin tale will play the theatre over the Hallowe’en period, and beyond.
Wicked is a skilful adaptation of Gregory Maguire's book by Winnie Holzman, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Enchanted). Its events take place before, during and after the plot of L Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and eagle-eyed watchers will pick up many of the references to its source material throughout the runnng time of the musical.
Over 50,000 tickets have already been sold but very good seats are still available, so it’s not too late to secure your visit to this spectacular show.
And you definitely don’t want to miss having heard the amazing voice of the utterly superb Ashleigh Gray, who performs the leading role of Elphaba with winning conviction and verve.
Ashleigh Gray as Elphaba
Theatrically, it is hard to beat the crescendo that comes at the conclusion of Act One when she unleashes a thrillingly powerful rendition of the show’s most famous number, Defying Gravity.
Gray’s strong character work is beautifully complemented by her opposite number, Emily Tierney, as ditzy blonde Glinda. Tierney lands every laugh, especially during the slightly demented dance she performs during her terrific delivery of Popular.
Steven Pinder as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
They are ably supported by the rest of the cast, particularly Samuel Edwards as romantic lead Fiyero, Marilyn Cutts as Madame Morrible, former Brookside star Steven Pinder as the Wizard / Doctor Dillamond and Carina Gillespie as Nessarose.
Costumes are eccentric and magnificent and Joe Mantello’s direction is beautifully judged, particularly when he allows his leading ladies to simply stand alongside each other and sing their hearts out, utterly thrilling their audiences in the process.
Box office: 02380 711811, mayflower.org.uk
Samuel Edwards and Ashleigh Gray
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here