As "Wicked" makes its return to San Francisco's Orpheum Theatre, it's hard not to wonder: what's behind its enduring appeal? Is it the show's ability to balance darkness and light, or its masterful blend of YA fantasy and power ballads? Perhaps it's a combination of both. The musical, which premiered 21 years ago, has grown into a global phenomenon, and its latest touring production is no exception.

One of the show's greatest strengths is its portrayal of female friendship. Writer Winnie Holzman astutely centers the bond between Elphaba and Glinda, allowing their frenemies-to-BFF dynamic to take center stage. This narrative approach proves refreshing, as it avoids the typical love triangle trope and instead focuses on the complexities of female relationships. The male characters, including the Wizard of Oz and Fiyero, serve as mere supporting actors, never stealing attention from the dynamic between the two leads.

Despite some noticeable age-related issues on stage, particularly in the first act, "Wicked" still charms its audiences with its signature blend of fantasy and music. The show's die-hard fan base is a testament to its enduring appeal. But what about the cast? Lauren Samuels and Austen Danielle Bohmer star as Elphaba and Glinda, respectively. While neither actress fully brings her character to life, Bohmer's comedic flair and quirky performance as Glinda are notable standouts. Samuels, on the other hand, has impressive pipes but struggles to convey genuine emotion in her climactic romantic scene.

The rest of the cast, including Aymee Garcia as the lovable yet malaprop-spewing Madame Morrible, seems to be in a mad dash to the next punchline. The chemistry between Samuels and Xavier McKinnon, who plays Fiyero, is lacking, keeping the emotional stakes low.

But what does it all mean? Is "Wicked" just a fun, feel-good musical, or does it offer something more profound? As we grapple with themes of patriarchy and corruption in our own world, the show's message of joy and hope in dark times becomes all the more relevant. "Wicked" may be a musical, but it's also a powerful exploration of what it means to be human.

STEPHEN SCHWARTZ

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