WICKED with Melissa Bell Chait — Page 2

scheduled --

matinee -- Chait
evening -- Cheno

Just having seen Chait, I think Glinda is a supporting role, and I like it that way, it seems that it is supposed to be that way. The story is about Elphaba, not Glinda. Glinda is always a presence, and even a narrator of sorts, but it's not her story. I think that answers how it should be, but having never seen Chenoweth, I don't know if that's how it is. But with Chait, I'm glad that it's Elphaba's story, and therefore, Idina's starring role.

Well, Interesting report from my brother (after a nice dinner at Thalia!). Said he loved the show even more this afternoon than when we saw it a few weeks ago in previews. He is a bigger Chenoweth fan than me, so he was very hesitant, but he loved Chait and said that he actually thought her lack of schtick may have served WICKED as a whole. Thought she had a beautiful voice and was suprised they could find someone who could sing so well and land all the jokes. Missed some of the Chenoweth moments that are distinctly hers (and was relieved Chait didn't try to do a Kristin impersonation), but said he thought the show was somewhat more powerful as he knew where the focus was supposed to be. Thought it was clear who were were supposed to be following, and that Glinda was certainly there to support Elphaba's story. I asked him if this was due to anything Chiat was lacking or if Chenoweth's "star power" was missed. He didn't think so. He really liked both women in the role, but thought that they just had slightly different interpretations, and that without a huge star as Glinda, the story was actually more clear. I am very anxious to go back and see it again now with Melissa to see how the "balance" is affected. Will also be interesting to see Laura Bell Bundy's interpretation. I, for one, am a big fan of seeing all sorts of takes on a role. If only I had more money!

Well, now I have to go back and see the show with Kristin someday soon. It is so strange to hear that when she is on the lines are crossed as to who is "the star" of the show. It seemed quite clear that this is and should be Elphaba's story. One of my favorite things about Melissa's performance was how she told the story and supported Elphaba's journey, while still leaving a strong impression of her own and keeping the audience laughing throughout, without stealing focus through her comedy. Very intrigued to go back and see it with Kristin now.

Saw TAKE ME OUT last night. Will post later, but all I can say is I am becoming a fan of director Joe Mantello. He just provided me with two very exciting/thought provoking evenings of theater.

Did not mean to sound rude towards Laura Bell Bunday, however...I saw her in Hairspray and was not a big fan. Hopefully she will surprise me in Wicked.