Wicked 101

Carol RH Malasig

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Excited for 'Wicked'? Rappler preps with a slew of awesome videos and trivia about the hit show

FROM ENEMIES TO FRIENDS THEN BACK TO ENEMIES. See the story of Glinda and Elphaba and how they became the Good Witch of the North and Wicked Witch of the West. Lunchbox Theatrical Productions and Concertus Manila

MANILA, Philippines – In just two days, the hit Broadway musical that urged millions to get up on their feet and ‘defy gravity’ will be opening in Manila for a limited 3-week run.

Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West published in 1995, Wicked is what some would call a kind of spinoff from the beloved classic The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum.

Wicked is a story about how legends are made, tracking the story of the lead Elphaba, from her days as a student at Shiz University to her time as Oz’s ultimate villain. Though the story is set in a fictional world, themes of individuality and courage have struck a nerve with millions of fans worldwide. 

Funny but heartfelt, the musical also takes on the questions on the nature of good and evil and how villains are made.

From the shelves to the stage

Originally intended as a film adaptation, Wicked evolved into a theatrical production instead, with the first ever public performance held in San Francisco in 2003. In the same year, the musical opened on Broadway. (WATCH: ‘Wicked’ exclusive: One-on-one with the cast)

It isn’t hard to recognize two of the original cast members, who are also prominent Hollywood actors: Broadway star Idina Menzel won a Tony for her role as Elphaba, while Kristin Chenoweth played the role of Glinda. You might recognize Idina and Kristin as guest stars on the television musical Glee. In the beginnings of his career, American Idol winner Adam Lambert’s was also an understudy for the role of Fiyero and a member of the ensemble. (WATCH: ‘Wicked’ exclusive: One-on-one with Jay Laga’aia)

Manila season

Filipinos catching the 3-week production here in Manila are expecting nothing short of a fabulous show as all props and costumes that will be used here are exact replicas of those in Broadway, brought into the country using over 20 shipping containers.

Lunchbox Theatrical Productions and Concertus Manila will be bringing in the Australian cast with Suzie Mathers as Glinda the Good Witch, and Jemma Rix as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch. 

In the Philippines, fans have long since expressed their desire for the musical to come to Manila. They were even petitioning online to bring Wicked to Manila, long before news that the play would be staged here in 2014. 

The musical will not only shed light as to how Elphaba became ‘wicked’ but will give the audiences something to think about – are good intentions with bad results the same as bad intentions with bad outcomes?

Catch Wicked at the Cultural Center of the Philippines from January 22 to Feburary 23. – Rappler.com

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