Lullaby League
The music in Wicked is such that one is essentially unable to exit the lobby without at least pondering for a moment purchasing the original cast recording soundtrack. From the energy and enthusiasm of "Dancing Through Life" to the production's most emotional ballad "For Good," sung in such perfect harmony by DeCicco and Matlock, the tunes are the kind you just don't forget.DeCicco begins the show with some amazing operatic melodies, and although Matlock is stuck in her lower register early in the production, she too is given the opportunity to display some impressive vocal chops.
There are moments when the lyrics are lost behind the orchestra, particularly when the ensemble is singing, but otherwise, there are very few weaknesses.
Kyle McDaniel, the understudy filling in for Cliffton Hall in Thursday's matinee, handles the role quite capably with a vocal richness, and Deedee Magno Hall succeeds at the difficult task of emitting powerful melodies from her chair.
In fact, although I didn't have the pleasure of seeing Oklahoma native Kristen Chenowith and friends on Broadway, it is difficult to contemplate a cast far outshining this one vocally.
The shows at the Civic Center Music Hall, many of which are certainly top-notch, are often touted as Broadway-caliber. But from the rich, detailed costumes of the ensemble that seem to change in mere seconds to the intricate, well-timed choreography, Wicked is one show that truly embodies Big Apple theatre in OKC.
Not only does Wicked possess excitement and humor as it re-imagines a classic and reveals its secrets of Oz, the show has a great tenderness at its core. It is truly a bewitching experience for Oklahoma City.
Not only does Wicked possess excitement and humor as it re-imagines a classic and reveals its secrets of Oz, the show has a great tenderness at its core. It is truly a bewitching experience for Oklahoma City.
