By June Ramli
Sydney, Oct 13: I managed to catch the iconic musical “Wicked” for the second time at the Sydney Lyric Theatre in Pyrmont, where it once again enchanted a full house audience.
The magic unfolded as theatergoers, bedecked in shades of green, sipped on Wicked-inspired cocktails, perused show-related merchandise, and indulged in choc tops.
Even on a Thursday night, the theater was a full house, with fans eager to witness the enchanting story.
The anticipation was palpable, and the excitement was in the air.
As the clock neared 7.30 pm, attendees were gracefully ushered to their seats, where some couldn’t resist capturing a pre-show selfie despite the no-photo policy.
This wasn’t the first encounter with “Wicked” for many in the audience, but for others, it was a captivating introduction to the Land of Oz.
The storyline revolves around the remarkable friendship between Elphaba, the green-skinned outcast played by Sheridan Adams, and the popular, yet comically inept Glinda, portrayed by Courtney Monsma.
The chemistry between the two lead actresses was undeniable.
While both were exceptional, Courtney Monsma’s portrayal of Glinda left a lasting impression.
Her performance was not only flawless but carried an undeniable charm and humor, which kept the audience thoroughly engaged throughout the two-and-a-half-hour performance.
The supporting cast was equally praiseworthy, with Shewit Belay, who played Nessarose, delivering some of the most melodious vocals.
Her enchanting performance added depth to the production.
One of the standout features of “Wicked” was the impeccable execution of the costumes, seamless scene transitions, and flawless singing.
The audience was left in awe, pondering whether the songs were pre-recorded or performed live.
This musical adventure proved to be a delight not just for seasoned theatergoers but also for newcomers.
One enthusiastic first-timer in the audience was my mum, who enjoyed the show immensely.
“Wicked” truly knows no boundaries.
Following the intermission, a few patrons chose to depart, but a sizeable audience remained, ensuring that the cast received a well-deserved standing ovation at the close of the performance.
In comparison to the New York City show that I watched in 2019, the Sydney installment of “Wicked” offered a more intimate and immersive experience.
It allowed viewers to truly grasp the storyline, revel in the song renditions, and connect with the enchanting characters.
For those contemplating their first foray into the world of musicals, “Wicked” at Sydney Lyric Theatre is a stellar choice.
The show runs until January and promises an unforgettable journey into the enchanting realms of musical theater.
For tickets and a chance to experience the magic, go here.
June Ramli is the editor of DailyStraits.com. To stay in touch with June, look her up on Twitter @junesairaramli