Wicked’s Magic in Memphis

For a musical based on a hit film, “Wicked” starts in an unusual way - as most fans are well aware that “Wicked” is the prequel to “The Wizard of Oz,” the musical from Gregory Maguire begins with “You’ll never look at The Wizard of Oz the same way again after seeing this musical.” The play, currently performing at The Orpheum, transformed the small Memphis theatre into a world where monkeys fly, babies are born green and animals can talk. The infamous map of Oz as constructed by Maguire adorns the backdrop just before the animals come to life and begin to please the audience.

Opening in 2003 the show has been touring for years and this tim e around has been headlined by Marcie Dodd as Elphaba, Helene Yorke as Galinda with Carrie Manolakos as Dodd’s understudy. Much like the original stars (Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda), Yorke was full of comedy and sparkle that made her high-pitched voice the highlight of the evening. David de Vries performed the role of Doctor Dillamond, a goat who teaches at the school while Marilyn Caskey played Madama Morrible, a true portrait of evil. If you want to catch this act or others, get your Wicked tickets today!

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