The last time I saw “WICKED,” the 2003 musical from Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman, performed on stage, I (and probably most of the world) had yet to learn who Ariana Grande was. That’s mostly an indictment of how old I am, but it’s also a testament to how long the show has had a hold on the musical theater world. Audiences have been defying gravity and debating how well pink goes with green for over two decades, and for good reason.
Rochester is a theater town in the best possible way. It makes sense, then, that this current production, onstage at West Herr Auditorium Theatre as part of RBTL’s 2025-26 season through March 1, is being given the Ozian treatment. Rather than roll out the red carpet, downtown buildings with color-changing lights are being encouraged to display green throughout the run of the show. West Herr patrons of age can enjoy a Glinda (sparkling rosé wine) or an Elphaba (a twist on a Midori sour), and may enjoy it even more when it’s prepared by a bartender in a black witch hat, as mine was on Thursday. “WICKED” is the kind of show — the rare one, these days — that inspires rabid fandom of all ages. A packed house on a grey, rainy February evening was inspiring and encouraging.
At this point, the production itself is nearly foolproof, with its clock-gear stage adornments, intimidating dragon jutting out over the pit, and costumes full of such color and texture and movement they seem created in Oz themselves. Leads Zoe Jensen as Glinda (giving an athletically comedic performance in the spirit of Madeline Kahn or Teri Garr) and Jessie Davidson as Elphaba (channeling early Idina Menzel, who originated the role, with a voice that could put RG&E out of business) lead a joyful, committed cast who volley from students to Muchkins to Ozians with ease. The show also does well by its villains, letting Eileen T’Kaye and Tom McGowan infuse Madame Morrible and the Wizard himself with just the right amount of camp and charlatanism.
“Wicked” shines brightest when Glinda and Elphaba are together, and Jensen and Davisons give duets “What Is This Feeling?” and “Popular” a welcome buoyancy. But it’s nearly impossible to top “Defying Gravity.” And why would you want to? As a song, it’s invigorating; as an Act I closer, it’s unimpeachable. If I had any reservations at the top of the show that Davidson might be holding back vocally, they were moot by the time the lights came down on Elphaba’s ascension. The power of a showstopper is unmatched, and she — and the lighting designers and crew — was more than up to the task.
I don’t remember enough of the production that I saw over 15 years ago to know if Jon M. Chu’s “Wicked” and “Wicked: For Good” movies have had any reverse influence on this current iteration. I suspect they might (but I am sad to report that Elphaba’s sex cardigan did not make the transition from screen to stage.)
If you’re seeing the show for the first time during this run and haven’t seen the films, I’m excited for you and implore you to go in unspoiled. There’s a plot twist or two I wish more audience members had been surprised by. Regardless of your level of familiarity, this production deserves a spot on your calendar.
Just follow the yellow brick road.
“WICKED” runs through March 1 at West Herr Auditorium Theatre, more info and tickets here.
Johanna Lester is a pop culture critic who mainlines movies, TV and the best cookies Rochester has to offer. She’ll also hold that grudge on your behalf. Follow her @theauntjojo.
Saw wicked Wednesday night it was fabulous!!