Wicked has finally arrived at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Melbourne, and let me tell you, opening night was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment the curtains lifted, the audience, including Lucy Durack the previous Glinda, Anthony Callea and his partner Tim Campbell who played Fiyero in 2010, were swept away on a magical journey to the Emerald City, where two unlikely friends – Glinda and Elphaba – captivated our hearts and minds.
Courtney Monsma as Glinda and Sheridan Adams as Elphaba delivered outstanding performances, bringing their characters to life with grace and depth. Monsma’s portrayal of the bubbly and popular Glinda was charming and endearing, while Adams’ interpretation of the misunderstood and outcast Elphaba was powerful and moving. The chemistry between the two leading ladies was palpable, drawing the audience in and keeping us on the edge of our seats throughout the entire performance.
But it wasn’t just Monsma and Adams who stole the show. Simon Burke’s portrayal of the enigmatic Wizard was nothing short of mesmerising. Burke’s performance added another layer of depth to the story, as we watched the characters navigate the complexities of power, friendship, and morality.
Robyn Nevin, a true powerhouse in the world of Australian Theatre played the part of Madame Morrible, she brought a sense of cunning and manipulation to the character, making us believe that she was simply helping Elphaba on her journey to meet the Wizard. However, as the story unfolded, we began to see the true motives behind her actions.
Nevin’s portrayal of Madame Morrible was so convincing that we couldn’t help but be drawn in by her charm and charisma. She had us hanging on her every word, believing in her guidance and support for Elphaba. But as the layers of her character were peeled back, we began to see the darker side of Madame Morrible’s intentions.
The costumes in Wicked were truly a sight to behold. From Glinda’s sparkling gowns to Elphaba’s stunning witch attire, every detail was meticulously crafted to bring the characters to life.
The stage design and props were also top-notch, transporting the audience to the magical world of Oz. But what truly stole the show for me were the vocals of the leading ladies. Glinda’s high notes and effortless grace were captivating, while Elphaba’s powerful voice and emotional depth brought tears to my eyes. Their duets were nothing short of magical, sending shivers down my spine.
It was their incredible talent and chemistry that truly made this production of Wicked unforgettable. If you have the chance to see this show, don’t miss out on experiencing the magic of these incredible performers.
By Melinda Sullivan
Photography by Sam D’Agostino
For more information please visit http://wickedthemusical.
