![[CREDIT: Caitlyn DiPompo] Jessie Davidson as Elphaba in PPAC'S visually stunning and well-acted production of 'Wicked.'](https://warwickpost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PPAC-Wicked-1.jpg)
“Wicked” debuted in 2003 and became a massive hit on Broadway. Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth became major stars in the process. The movie adaptation, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, was critically acclaimed.
Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, this is an origin story focusing on the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda, the Good Witch from “The Wizard of Oz.”
Jessie Davidson plays Elphaba, a green faced girl who is an outcast at a boarding school. She terrifies her classmates by exhibiting magical powers. She shocks everyone by liberating a caged lion cub and vows to free all the imprisoned animals.
In contrast, the cheerful Galinda (Zoe Jensen) is popular and beloved. She’s initially repulsed by Elphaba but grows to like her.
Elphaba has a tragic backstory: she confides in Galinda that her parents held her responsible for the physical deformity of sister Nessarose (Jada Temple), confined to a wheelchair.
Galinda later changes her name to Glinda and falls for the dashing Fiyero (Ethan Kirschbaum).
This is a great looking show. The scenic design is gorgeous, especially the glittering Emerald City. A giant dragon looms over the stage.
The lighting and costumes are also spectacular. Writer Winnie Holzman crafts some snappy dialogue for the characters. Composer Stephen Schwartz’s score is upbeat and serves the story effectively. The orchestra, under the remarkable direction of Faith Seetoo, never overpowers the vocals.
Davidson is an engaging and charismatic performer, lending Elphaba the right blend of intelligence and vulnerability.
Davidson delivers soaring vocals on the show’s signature tune, “Defying Gravity.”
Jensen is bubbly and amusing as the somewhat ditzy and kind-hearted Glinda.
The two actresses are at their best whenever they share the stage, particularly on the heartfelt ballad, “For Good.”
Tom McGowan is majestic and gracious as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and Eileen T’Kaye is a lot of fun as the malevolent Madame Morrible.
“Wicked” is a must-see for fans of “The Wizard of Oz.” In addition to learning more about the two witches, the story provides backstories for the Scarecrow and Tin Man. Oddly, the Cowardly Lion is left out.
Dorothy doesn’t make an appearance either, but her famous pair of red shoes does. Despite some flaws, the show is an affectionate and sometimes satirical take on a beloved children’s classic.
Wicked runs through March 22 at the Providence Performing Arts Center. 220 Weybosset St., Providence, RI. Runtime is 2 hours, 45 minutes with intermission. For tickets, call 401-421-2787 or visit ppacri.org.
Author: Joe Siegel
Joe Siegel is a regular contributing writer for WarwickPost.com. His reporting has appeared in The Sun Chronicle in Attleboro and EDGE.
This is a test
