Just an update: I went today at 2:25 for the 2:30 show and got the last day seat - front row middle aisle. Can't beat that! A little expensive compared to other rushes (27.50 gdp) but still, great seat. (The show, on the other hand...I was really spoiled by seeing Idina and Cheno in it. Even Joey McIntyre was a better Fiyero.)
I know, it's hard to believe I've never seen it! Would have loved to have seen Kerry, but heard great things about this cast. Looking forward to Christopher Howell (Betty Blue Eyes) and I've heard wonderful things about both Rachel and Gina!
Wink wink you could then cross the road and get another day ticket for Billy Elliot for £19, you will then see one of London's best shows and worst, all on the same day.
I might be in Billy Elliott myself in the evening, depending what time my train gets back from Chichester.
Considering I only like and not love Wicked I have to admit to seeing it quite a few times. Clap don't worry about not seeing Kerry, I will never understand the hype about her performance. She belted and didn't act, that's it.
Gina Beck is a sensational Glinda and Rachael Tucker gives a flawless vocal performance. Matt Willis I personally really rate as he is edgy and rockier and not too musical theatre, but I know he isnt to everyone's taste. Second best Fiyero after Adam Garcia
Agree about the lack of magic, but also in terms of this production compared to others. Gina Beck did have a beautiful voice, but there are so so many potential jokes in the book for Glinda to mine, and she didn't. Also many of the lines that proved funniest in the Bway version were just strewn aside, leaving the show almost devoid of humor, when it has the potential to be so humorous (and smart). I was very disappointed in this regard, as though the director had no idea how to handle the lines. It seemed that all the cast members were focusing too hard on enunciating their words so children could understand, instead of reciting the lines properly as the character would/should. It was quite obvious. I'm upset to see such wasted opportunity in such a great show.
Gina got a lot of laughs when I saw it. I think some WoZ jokes fall slightly flat (eg apples, pear oh my) because the film isnt so ingrained on people in the uk.
That would make a lot of sense, as there are so many little gems that work when you know the movie. But a lot seemed like on the way to the West End, it got geared more toward children. Which, if that's what keeps it in business, is fine; it's just disappointing for me as an adult.
joined:6/24/09
Posted: 6/19/12 at 03:19pm