Attention all “friends of Dorothy,” the smash hit Wicked will be defying gravity as it returns to Houston this month. Now I’m sure you have all heard at least one song from Wicked sung at Guava on karaoke night but here is your chance to hear actual professionals and not a twink who has had one too many vodka tonics.
The Tony Award-winning musical is based on author Gregory Maquire’s book Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. It tells the unlikely story of the friendship between two strong females in the land of Oz; the green-skinned outcast Elphaba and the perky Glinda, or as you may know them, the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch.
While the show boasts some of the best music, costumes and stages, the show’s staying power could be contributed to its underlying social commentary on tolerance. Due to the color of her skin, Elphaba begins the show as an outcast just for looking different.
“The message of not judging a book by its cover is timeless and an important one,” comments Ryan Jackson, an actor in the touring production.
It is easy to see parallels in the show to current issues, like intolerance and bullying that the gay community is still faced with today.
“In the end, the show has an incredible message of diversity and inclusion of characters whether they be disabled, animals or just different based on their skin color,” says Jackson. “It is a nice reminder that we all have a story, hopes, dreams and are all the same.”
And according to Jackson, one of the best parts of being part of a Broadway blockbuster show like this one, is having producers and a cast so active in the community and give back to organizations like Broadway Cares and Bully Bust.
Wicked with be showing at The Hobby Center from July 6 to August 14, 2016.