The Wizard of Oz has been loved by generation, and reminds us again and again that there truly is “no place like home.” But did you ever wonder how Galinda the Good and The Wicked Witch of the West came to have their powerful positions in Oz? Behind every witch is always a “wicked” story. And now’s your chance to see the award-winning Wicked: The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz playing at the Aronoff Center. Get ready — “you’re not in Kansas anymore.”
Wicked is based on the 1995 Gregory Maguire novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, an extension of L. Frank Baum’s book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. This “popular” musical is set before and after Dorothy’s arrival in Oz, and is told from the witches’ perspective. Wicked is the story of an unlikely friendship, Elphaba and Galinda (accent on the “Ga”), struggling with personal/social beliefs and of course: a love triangle. And it’s always important to remember, that sometimes witches aren’t wicked… just misunderstood.
Last Saturday evening, my family was swept away to the Land of Oz and the Emerald City. This was my daughter’s first time seeing this enchanted musical, and she was captivated from the start. She rarely took her eyes from the stage, and would leap in her seat with surprise when recognizing the references to the 1939 film: the ruby slippers, cowardly lion, tin man, scare crow and the twister.
With powerful voices and inspiring performances, the actresses and actors brilliantly “defied gravity” bringing this magical comedy/drama to life. And it’s always fun to see popular culture referenced in the production. Being Star Wars fans, we loved Galinda’s lightsaber action (pew pew). And what woman doesn’t love shoes, the ruby slippers always seem to be the “must have” accessory of Oz.
With standing ovations, Wicked ended with audiences awed by this enchanting musical. As we drove home, the soundtrack had the entire family singing and recounting our favorite acts. The next day was spent listening to my daughter’s musical interpretation of Wicked — and watching Wizard of Oz (a few times). Needless to say, there’s a new fan in town.
From now until October 15th, Wicked is playing at the Aronoff Center with tickets still available. Bring the family to enjoy the fantasy and music of Oz. With a running time of two hours and 45 minutes (one 15-minute intermission), I recommend this production for children 8+.
About Ainslie:
Ainslie Gordon is a St. Louis, Missouri native and graduate of the University of Missouri’s Journalism School. Her career has focused on advertising, public relations and event planning. In 2011, Ainslie and her family moved to Cincinnati; and she became a stay-at-mom and founder of the blog, Modhousewife.
Additionally, she was a fashion/trends contributor on Fox 19 and Fox 2. Currently, Ainslie is the Marketing Director for Game On! Fitness. She is also a Girl Scout leader and enjoys volunteering throughout the community.
She lives with her husband and daughter in West Chester and loves all things Disney. You can find Ainslie on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.