#29 – Attend the Theater – Wicked

“Nothing is written in the stars… No one controls your destiny.” – Gregory Maguire

Recently, we headed to the Detroit Opera House to see the musical, Wicked. I have to admit, I wasn’t super excited. I went to college right outside of NYC, so I am very critical of the quality of theater productions. I previously saw Wicked in Toronto, in 2006, and all I remember about it was, it was OK, and very long.

The Detroit Opera House opened in 1922 and was the 5th largest movie theater in the world, seating 3,500 people, when it opened. Now, it seats 2,700 and is a beautiful building worthy of a first-class production. And this touring company, did not disappoint!

Now, for the show — It was still long, but it was MUCH better than I remember! Maybe, I just appreciated it more since I am older, or maybe this was a better production. Who knows, maybe I had a better seat this time! The cast was amazing, and their singing was world class! Popular and Defying Gravity were crowd favorites.

I’m glad I got to see this show again, as it really changed my opinion of it. While still not in my Top 5, it was good, and I am glad that we got to share it with our daughter. What is your favorite musical or play?

For me, I’d say my Top 5 are: 1) Hamilton; 2) Blood Brothers; 3) Six; 4) Phantom of the Opera and 5) The Cursed Child, but my list changes as I find my new favorite show! Stay tuned to see what else I see this year!