'Lyrics and music and book, oh my!' Proof, if proof were needed, that the old-fashioned Broadway musical isn't dead. Note: This review refers to the original cast. This show remains the perfect teen treat as an introduction to musical theatre. The ensemble too put in a fine effort on a 'double performance' day, taking the show at a slower pace which helps the narrative. Savannah Stevenson (Galinda) and Martyn Ellis (The Wizard) are the other stand out performances, both managing engaging performances. If you can catch another of her nights 'on,' do. Andreou is someone special in musical theatre. If this is her third performance, her 103rd will be something.

The monkey was almost in tears with her 'I'm Not That Girl,' and 'Defying Gravity' is a triumph. A leading lady who producers should be falling over themselves to sign to whichever musical takes her fancy.' The monkey is so glad the producers of 'Wicked' took its advice.Īt the risk of channelling its 'Wicked inner fangirl' Natalie Andreou smashes her role out of the ballpark. With regular Emma Hatton unavailable, Natalie Andreou (pictured above) stepped in at the shortest notice as Elphaba - just as Ms Andreou did in September 2011 for Amy Pemberton in 'Rock Of Ages.' The monkey said then that 'Ms Andreou isn’t known – but should be, and soon. Memorable songs, satisfying story that makes its two and three-quarter hours fly by like a magic broomstick.īest of all, at the performance the monkey saw, a prediction it made back in September 2011 came true. it remains a (pure) waterproof hit, as slick as its first night.Īfter all these years, it's very clear just what a well-constructed piece it is. There's a reason the monkey is able to re-visit this show after 9 years. (Seen at the Evening performance on 11th February 2015).

Wicked Heat by Mila Young