So, I’m trying to figure out how to share some of my memories of seeing the show on my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pg/AccountantDreams/about/?ref=page_internal so go like it on there to see if I do.
ANYWAY, Wicked has been around for 15 years. It is the 6th longest running show on Broadway. I am not staying up late to watch the celebration tonight on NBC because I have a strict bedtime and work in the morning, but I will be making my husband watch tomorrow on Hulu.
If you have never heard of the show, then you are living under a rock. It has everything a musical needs to be just amazing, including a book series. Wicked is the tale of Glinda the good witch of the north and Elphaba the wicked witch of the west. It has love and hate and sorrow and humor. You will feel empowered and you will cry. The sets and costumes are gorgeous. I routinely put on one woman shows with the soundtrack (all off key as I will be the first to admit that I cannot sing).
Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth gave Wicked life 15 years ago, and they will live on forever as Elphaba and Glinda. However, so many other amazing actresses has graced the Wicked stage like Megan Hilty (if you didn’t love her in Smash, you’re lying), Cassie Levi (currently starring as Elsa in Frozen), Laura Bell Bundy (the o.g. Elle Woods on Broadway), and so many more.
THEN you have the guys who have played Fiyero: Taye Diggs, Aaron Tveit, Adam Labert, Joey McIntyre. Yes. Joey freaking McIntyre from New Kids on the Block. This show is iconic.
And while “Defying Gravity” is the most well known song from the show, you cannot tell me you have not once belted “No Good Deed” on a really crappy day. Or that “For Good” was not one of your graduation playlist options. The soundtrack guys. You will never not have a song to go with your mood.
I was able to see Wicked in Atlanta 7 years ago. I was a month into my freshman year of college, and it was the first broadway tickets I ever purchased with my own money. We were at the very back of the balcony. Worth every penny. I want to see it again so bad. If it is still playing in five years, we’re planning a big birthday trip to New York so it is on my top three list to see.
I wish they would do a movie or recording like Phantom of the Opera did for their 25th anniversary. Someone make that happen please.
Happy 15 years and may there be many many more!
MarieBee’s Buzz 