Last week my daughter and I went to see WICKED, the long standing Broadway musical that tells the “untold story of the witches of Oz.” It was FABULOUS but here are a few tips to make your WICKED experience that much better!
We all know The Wizard of Oz storyline; ruby slippers, a yellow brick road, some flying monkeys and one of the most evil villains of all time, the Wicked Witch of the West. But WICKED gives the intriguing back story of this nefarious character; like why her skin is green and how she got that awful pointy hat. And how two unlikely friends end up becoming the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. WICKED opened last week at the Fox Theatre in downtown Atlanta and my daughter and I had the opportunity to see this fabulous show. We loved every moment!! The entire cast was incredible but the vocals and stamina from the two actresses who played the lead roles were amazing! The story is so well-written and I really gained an understanding and appreciation for Elphaba, I mean the Wicked Witch of the West.
Before you head to the Fox to watch this spectacular performance, here are 5 things to know before seeing WICKED to make your experience more enjoyable.
#1 Buy Your Parking Tickets Ahead of Time
The Fox Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Atlanta. And like any major city, parking is extremely limited. When I purchased our tickets online I also bought a $20 parking pass. This was money well-spent for a covered and guarded parking lot that was a 3 minute walk from the theatre. Especially after the show was done and we had to walk back to our car at 10:30pm.
#2 Make Dinner Reservations
We did not make dinner reservations thinking finding a table for 4 at 6pm on a Thursday night would not be an issue. We were wrong. Yes, there are a plethora of restaurants around the Fox Theatre with all types of cuisine and price points. But with two ten year old’s tastebuds in mind, we walked around to a number of places trying to find a table without a long wait. Ultimately, we succeeded and had a delightful dinner at Edgar’s Proof and Provision. My pinot grigio and grilled peach salad was divine and my daughter loved her shirley temple and margherita pizza. But next time, I would definitely make dinner reservations ahead of time.
#3 Do Not Be Late
The first 15 minutes of the show are extremely important to the story line. Plus, if you arrive late, the ushers may not let you in until the opening number is over (standard theatre etiquette). Also, allow time for security. Everyone goes through a bag check and metal detectors before entering the theatre.
#4 It Is A Long Show, Plan Accordingly
WICKED is a 2 hour and 45 minute show with a 15 minute intermission. I highly recommend using the restrooms BEFORE the show starts. Especially since the 1st Act is almost 90 minutes. And if you didn’t get dinner before the show, visit the refreshment stand before the show for some snacks. Epecially if you dont think you will make it to intermission.
***TIP: Avoid the refreshment line at intermission and pre-order your drinks and snacks before the show starts.***
#5 Watch The Wizard of Oz Before Going
You do not need to be a Wizard of Oz expert to appreciate WICKED. But if you are familiar with the music, storyline and a few famous lines from the 1939 film, you will already have a connection to the show before you arrive. And you will “get” all the subtle references, jokes, and puns when you see the musical.
Now I know why WICKED has mesmorized audiences of all ages for almost 20 years. This new take on a classic story carries a powerful message about friendship, courage, and doing what is right in trying times. I was singing the songs in my head for days after the show. And even though I’ve been a Dorothy Gail fan since I was 2 years old, I have a whole new appreciation for the Wicked Witch of the West.
****WICKED runs from July 5-30 at the Fox Theatre. Buy your tickets here.****
And if you feel like making some red ruby slippers of your own after seeing Wicked, check out this simple DIY tutorial.