‘Wicked’ Unleashes Delicious Fantasies

BY BONNIE SQUIRES/ When the Wizard of Oz leaped out from behind his fantastic mask apparatus, I thought — the Wizard reminds me of John Davidson!  That incredible smile, that fabulous voice, that wonderful head of hair, that booming personality!  I had not had time to open my program book to see which actor was, in fact, playing the role.

Turns out it IS John Davidson!  And he brings a dimension to the role which has probably not been seen before.

The Kimmel Center’s Broad­­way series has once again brought Wicked back to the Academy of Music, and this is definitely a Broadway-caliber production.

Kermit the Frog first said, “It’s Not Easy Being Green,” but Elphaba, the gal who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West in Wicked, finds the same challenge. Played by Alison Luff, she is great counterpoint to Glinda (Jenn ­Gambatese), the Good Witch of the North, as both have exquisite voices.

This is a lively prequel to the Wizard of Oz, as Dorothy has not yet appeared on the scene.  Based on Gregory Maguire’s best-selling novel of the same title, the special effects and stage settings alone are worth the price of admission.

This is also like going through the looking-glass, because all of your expectations are reversed. Turns out the Wicked Witch is not so wicked, and the Good Witch is not so noble.

The “Pricification” sign in the lobby, listing prices for dozens of items with Wicked themes, like t-shirts, tote bags, jewelry and mugs, was diligently studied by many of the playgoers, especially those with children in tow. Business was brisk.

So tear yourself away from TV reality shows and indulge in fantasy with Wicked. This show will be delighting audiences at the Academy of Music through Aug. 4.

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