Why I liked Wicked

It's been nearly three years since my friend Vanessa introduced me to the music of Wicked, a prequel to The Wizard of Oz about two young witches, Elphaba and Glinda, who came to be the Wicked Witch of the West, and The Good Witch of the North, respectively.

I finally saw it last month; it was worth the wait.

There is so much I could say, but here are the highlights, including a special YouTube treat:

1) Elphaba = Leah. Though clearly more talented than Glinda, because no one thinks her so, except those that want to use her, Elphaba feels undervalued and isolated. What would have happened if she could have believed, and others had believed, especially her parents and teachers, that she was Rachel? Would she have become The Wicked Witch of the West? Likely not.

Do we as parents, teachers, friends, family ever contribute to those in our care believing they are Leah?

2) Glinda = Rachel. I often talk of remembering we are Rachel, yet Wicked taught me that there are women who happily haven't forgotten. It also prompted the realization that just as Leah has her light side (stretching and striving), there can be a dark side to Rachel (being corrupted by the power and privilege that redounds to Rachel).

When in a situation in which we are beloved, as was Glinda the Good Witch, do we ever pull a Popular? Do we become so enamored with the fairy godmother persona that we inadvertently demean others? Can we guard against this corruption?

3) For Good, which celebrates the friendship of Elphaba and Glinda, could also be a systergy anthem. Listen to the lyrics as Kristen Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, the original stars, rehearse; I'll be curious to hear if you agree.

Who has changed your life for good? Have you seen Wicked? What were your highlights?

Comments

[Stacey]

The double entendre of being changed for good - this powerful song moves me tears every time.

In reflecting on relationships that have left me better versus permanently changing my foundation, sadly, I think that I have been effected more frequently than improved. In reflecting on why that is, I would simplify the themes by characterizing my level of “power” within the relationship. As I mature (age), I think that I have added to my table such that I can intern affect others for good - so for me, I think the lesson is in how I use “my powers for good”. How are each of us using hard fought gains to benefit others?

[Emily]

Whitney,

I too LOVED Wicked! So much so that some friends got me charms for my charm bracelet of Elphaba and Fiero. After I saw it for the first time in 2004 it was right as I had decided to move from New York after several years there. Below is the email I sent to Stephen Schwartz and the welcome surprise that followed. It absolutely made my day.

----- Original Message ----
From: Emily Anthon
To: Stephen Schwartz
Sent: Wednesday, January 28, 2004
Subject: Thank you for Wicked!

Dear Mr. Schwartz,

I felt compelled to write you after seeing Wicked last week. Several of my coworkers had seen the show and everyone was raving about it. I couldn't wait and I wasn't disappointed.

I am currently in the process of moving from New York City , a place that has been home for the last 7 years. It's the only place that I've lived this long and established the kind of friends you do in that time. Last Wednesday I was so absolutely moved by your lyrics and music to one song in particular. "For Good" has eloquently stated the feelings I have been unable to express to my friends that I'll be leaving behind. I can't listen to the soundtrack and not cry at that song.

I enjoyed your adaptation so much I'll be seeing it again at least once and maybe twice in the next three weeks.

Because I have seen Wicked, I have been changed for the better.

Thank you,

Emily Anthon

----- Original Message ----
From: Stephen Schwartz
To: Emily Anthon
Sent: Wednesday, January 28, 2004
Subject: Re: Thank you for Wicked!

Dear Emily:

What a nice way to start my day. Thank you for writing and for sharing such kind words about WICKED. I wish you all the best in your move and hope you make new friends quickly. Thanks for doing your part in keeping the house full at the Gershwin! All the best,

Stephen Schwartz