Music and
Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz.
Book by
Winnie Holzman
Directed by
Shaun Rennie
Choreographed
by Michelle Heine
Musical
Direction by Nicholas Griffin
Conducted by
Ian McLean
Presented by
Free-Rain Theatre Company
Canberra
Theatre until 28th October 2016
Reviewed by
Bill Stephens
Free-Rain
Theatre’s wondrous production of the Stephen Schwartz musical, “Wicked” is pure
joy from beginning to end. Brilliantly directed by Shaun Rennie, the production
works equally well as a thrilling theatrical spectacle, and as a moving telling
of the story of an unusual friendship highlighting the acceptance of
difference.
 |
| Laura Murphy (Glinda) - Loren Hunter (Elphaba) and ensemble. |
The story of
“Wicked” focusses on the back-story of “The Wizard of Oz”, depicting the
friendship between the two witches, Glinda and Elphaba, before they appear in
that story. Part of the fun is spotting the references to “The Wizard of Oz”. But even if you’ve never seen or read “The
Wizard Oz” (Really!!), you won’t be left out.
Shaun
Rennie’s direction is masterful. His clear focussing of the storyline, his imaginative
staging of the crowd scenes, and the strong, confident performances he draws
from his principals and ensemble, all evidence his attention to detail and firm
grasp of the musical genre.
The
production is visually beautiful with an exceptional set and eye-catching costumes,
all stunningly lit by Phil Goodwin. The special effects are brilliantly
achieved, especially Elphaba’s levitation during “Defying Gravity”.
 |
| "Wicked" ensemble |
Graceful,
sweeping choreography, devised by Michelle Heine, and superbly executed by the
dancers, cleverly showcases the spectacular costumes while complimenting the
visual spectacle and highlighting the mood of the scenes.
Two
outstanding performances provide the core of the show. Completely adorable,
Laura Murphy gives a wonderfully comic performance as the ditsy blonde, Glinda,
whose life lessons to Elphaba on how to be “Popular” are hilariously creative,
and whose ultimate getting of wisdom is beautifully realised.
In the
contrasting role of Elphaba, the green witch, Loren Hunter is equally
impressive, skilfully maintaining sympathy for her character despite her
aggressive approach to addressing her challenges. Both command the stage and possess superb
singing voices, equally comfortable belting or singing sweetly. They also have
the ability to phrase their songs so that the lyrics become conversations, especially
evident in their demanding and moving duet “For Good” which brings the show to
its climax.
 |
| Laura Murphy (Glinda) - Loren Hunter (Elphaba) |
Surrounding
Murphy and Hunter is a fascinating menagerie of talented supporting characters,
among them, the dashing Fiyero, handsome object of desire for both Glinda and
Elphaba, stylishly portrayed by Drew Weston. Bronwyn Sullivan, resplendent in a succession
of magnificent costumes, adds another of her impressive characterisation, as
the not-so-nice Madame Morrible, and Steve Amosa, as The Wizard, tugs at the
heartstrings with his beautifully sung “A Sentimental Man”.
 |
| Bronwyn Sullivan (Madam Morrible) and ensemble. |
Teya Duncan
gives an appealing performance as Elphaba’s crippled sister, Nessarose, who has
her heart broken by Alexander Clubb’s unhappy munchkin, Boq. Fraser Findlay intrigues
as the tragic sheep, Dr Dillamond, who is cruelly deprived of his ability to
speak, and David Santolin creates a sinister presence as the flying monkey,
Chistery.
 |
| Loren Hunter (Elphaba) |
Stephen
Schwartz score for “Wicked” is complex and demanding, but Ian McLean’s
magnificent orchestra meets every challenge head-on, providing a thrillingly
rich sound for the choral spectacle and the soaring solos, yet sympathetically
subdued when providing underplay for the dialogue.
Anne Somes
and her talented team at Free-Rain theatre have provided Canberra audiences
with many outstanding productions, but perhaps none more impressive than this
superb production of “Wicked”. Extra performances have already been added to
the previously announced schedule, but you’d be wise not to hesitate if you
want to experience this brilliant production.
This review first published in the digital edition of CITY NEWS on 17.10.16
