I saw the original late in the previews (sitting next to -- unbelievably enough! -- Alexis Smith and Craig Stevens), and I still treasure the memory. I didn't like the revival quite as much, maybe because I had too many memories and expectations. I thought having 2 wolves instead of 1 (to create symmetry with the 2 princes, maybe?) didn't work, and I really missed the Witch's "You're so nice / you're not good / you're not bad / you're just nice" section of "Last Midnight." But it was still a good show, and the recording's worth having.
Like Elphaba, I'd also recommend the British cast recording -- it's a darker, more brooding interpretation than either of the Bway albums, and it brings out details I hadn't paid enough attention to.
"Sweet summer evenings, hot wine and bread /
Sharing your supper, sharing your bed /
Simple joys have a simple voice:
It says why not go ahead?"