Wicked returns to Hippodrome
Currently in its 12th year on Broadway, Wicked has returned to the Hippodrome for its third visit, with the most recent being in 2012. It was a big hit then and no doubt will be again, with a four-week run that goes through April 26. The play is based on a 1995 novel which did quite well with sales over $5 million. Wicked has garnered 100 major international awards, including a Grammy and three Tonys, all well deserved.
This is an ideal show for the family, just be advised on school nights an 8 o’clock curtain will get you out at about 10:45 p.m. But as a treat, for a child who has done all their homework, it might be OK. The story is a prequel to the Wizard of Oz, before we meet Dorothy. It’s about the on-again off-again relationship of Glinda, a beautiful and popular girl and Elphaba born with emerald green skin and therefore the brunt of much abuse.
There is not one aspect of this production that is lacking, those great costumes, terrific sets, outstanding acting, singing and dancing and also the technical part, very important in Wicked what with flying monkeys and the Wizard. The show has enjoyed success all over the world having played in 13 countries and has been translated into five languages. There is a local connection here, one of the producers, Marc Platt is a Pikesville native. Also, the part of the Wizard is played by John Davidson.
For tickets go to BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com. Speaking of tickets here’s something you should know, 2 and a half hours prior to each performance get yourself to the box office and put your name in a lottery drum. Thirty minutes before the show names will be drawn for a limited number of orchestra seats for $25.00. A great way to see this show. Performances are Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.. Remember you have until April 26.
Eddie Applefeld is a Baltimore native and a graduate of Towson University. He has been in the broadcasting profession for over 30 years. Currently he is the Promotions Director of WCBM radio. Before that, he was part of the Rouse & Company show on WQSR, host of a cable TV show called Dining Out and adjunct instructor at Towson.
His past accomplishments include being named a finalist in Baltimore Tourism’s Employee of the Year Program and winner of Toastmaster’s Speaker of the Year contest. He was also twice a heartthrob for the American Heart Association’s gala fund raiser.