There is nothing better than taking your kids to Disneyland for the first time UNLESS it is taking your theatre kids to see Wicked! What a great show, great day and the joy of watching their faces as they saw the magic unfold on stage was the highlight of my week, month, year!
The powerful message and music in this touring Broadway production in Portland, OR is phenomenal. The sets are well used throughout the production with Galinda's bubble being used to levitate Elphaba is just a small example. The clock opening to reveal scenes at Shiz, the Emerald City and Monkey cages was brilliant. The costumes were stunning. They captured the magic of the Land of Oz from the stylish uniforms at Shiz to the stunning gowns of Emerald Citizens - every costume change was so integral to the sets and scenes to create an overall look and feel to the piece.
Vocals and choreography were outstanding. Since the Stage Door team is performing some of these numbers in their show, it was a wonderful opportunity for them to see the energy of the music on stage. From a flip of the wrist or foot movement or "Swish, swish" of the hair, it opened up a new perspective to their interpretation within their own characterization on stage. And of course, as they file away this extraordinary musical theatre production, they are looking ahead to the time when they will be performing this play on their home turf, Upstart Crow Studios.
Yes, much to crow about yesterday. How lucky am I to have such a great job - mentoring some of the greatest kids in the world! We Defy Gravity everyday!
