Wicked at the Kimmel Cultural Campus

If you love the phenom that is Wicked the musical you are in for a nice treat even if you are like me who had never seen it before. The show is mesmerizing from start to finish with the out of this world acting and the state of the art sets. Bigger than the show is the messaging. Many people I spoke to after the show had tears in their eyes and it’s a must see for all ages.

Wicked-courtesy of Wicked and Kimmel Cultural Campus

Before you go see Wicked at the Kimmel Cultural Campus

Get there at least 30 minutes early if not 40 minutes before the start of your show. This show is in high demand so make sure you secure your tickets before you go. There is plenty that you want to see before the show. There is a lot of merchandise to purchase. Keep in mind that there are at least 3 bars ready to serve you. The signature drink is called Popular Punch which is a watermelon sangria. I can attest that the drink is strong. Make sure if you have a past Kimmel cup to bring it along to save money. Seating for this matters. The show will be great no matter where you sit but if you really want that impactful show, get as close to the stage as possible.

The show is happening now until November 26, 2023. It is in my opinion kid approved but keep in mind the show is about 2.5 hours with one 15 minute intermission. So although younger children will love the theatrics they may not have the ability to sit that long.

Celia Hottenstein as Glinda and Olivia Valli as Elphaba in the National Tour of WICKED, photo by Joan Marcus

The Show Theme

It is snactched from the Wizard of Oz but with a twist. You follow Elphaba who born with green skin emerging as the victim in her own right. Trying to find her way the spin emerges around the classic in a way I wasn’t anticipated. Since I had not seen it before I enjoyed this new twist. We have grown up our whole lives thinking that the Wicked Witch of the West has always been born “wicked.” When I tell you the amount of nuggets that I wasn’t prepared for. For instance when Boise Holmes who played Doctor Dillamond said they were silencing the “animals from speaking.” there was something powerful in that moment. Was Elphaba played by Olivia Valli really as wicked as she is perceived? I wanted to give each performer a standing ovation separately not just collectively.

Olivia Valli as Elphaba in the National Tour of WICKED, photo by Joan Marcus

Celia Hottenstein played her role as Glinda (Guh-Linda). The amount of singing was earth shattering. I was in tune to every harmony. This production was in my top 5 for sure. Everything was right in the world of difference until someone called one Wicked. These labels that we give do more damage than harm. Wicked showed just that. Impressive, Strong, Witty, and Showstopping are words that I would use to describe the experience that is Wicked.

Behind the Scenes Action

This is the first time that I have ever been invited to attend a behind the scenes action. Unfortunately I had to miss it. However as always I have boots on the ground who attended for me. The way they showcased how the set changes from scene to scene is no easy task. I have some video that you can check on my Instagram so you can take a part in the action as well. Thank you to Steve Quin the company’s manager for allowing us to take part of it.

Don’t Forget your Swag

There is plenty of amazing items to get from this Wicked Tour. I honestly do get a lot of it gifted to me. I am always honored to received it. They send us over an amazing Wicked mug, hat, shirt, buttons, socks, glasses and some green candy since they delivered it to us on Halloween. I checked out the swag one at the show and its impressive. Make sure to grab you a haul either before or after. Pro-tip always get there early and get it before the show.

After Show Reception for Wicked

From time to time we are invited to attend an after show reception. The twist this time was the cast joined us. I loved it. As soona s they came in the energy from the show continued. Every last one of them were gracious answering our questions and allowing us to snap pictures while enjoying some great food, desserts, signature drink, beer and wine. It was one amazing late night.

With the showing being in Philadelphia until November 26, 2023 it allows families to come together that are getting together during the Thanksgiving holiday. Make sure you come and be prepared not to just spectate but take something home with you from the messaging and full on experience.

Elle of Siponwhat and Timothy Shew who played The Wizard

This show draws you in. Thank you to the Kimmel Cultural Campus and Wicked for allowing me to experience this for the first time. I am forever blown away. Tickets are going fast.