Wicked is back for a run at the Plaza Theatre and let me begin by saying that this production is definitely worth the price of the ticket. But is it as good as when it played in El Paso 3 years ago?

Yes and no. My impression last night was that the technical stagecraft…the lighting, the effects, the costumes…were actually superior to the previous production. The acting and singing portions were, in my opinion, slightly…ever so slightly…better the last time.

This year’s Glinda is fine but she doesn’t have quite the comedic timing than the previous Glinda did. There, I said it.

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It’s still well worth seeing, though. Just try not to think too much about the discrepancies between Wicked and the 1939 Wizard of Oz. For instance, if Elphaba loves the Scarecrow, why does she try to set him on fire in the movie? Also, if Elphaba loves animals so much, why does she want to kill Toto?? Like I said, better not to dwell on these inconvenient questions. Just enjoy.

If you still don’t think seeing Wicked is worth your time (guys) allow me to direct you to this South Park video which explains why it should…

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